{"title":"Paperbacks","description":"\u003ch3\u003eUpcoming Soccer Paperbacks Exclusives: Practical, Portable, Perfectly Priced — Next 90 Days, Through 2026 \u0026amp; Beyond | Your Source for Current \u0026amp; Upcoming Soccer Titles, Worldwide\u003c\/h3\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"kerr-rules","title":"Kerr Rules: Football Superstars","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Kerr Rules\u003cbr\u003e(N) \u003cbr\u003eby Simon Mugford and Dan Green (Illustrator) \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003eIs Sam Kerr your ultimate soccer hero? The Australian forward is one of the all-time legends in the history of the sport. She holds the distinction of being the only female football player to win the Golden Boot in three different leagues across three different continents, having played in Australia, USA and England. Read the amazing story of how Kerr switched from Aussie rules football to association football at the age of 12 and grew into a global icon in the game. Filled with lots of facts and stats, the inspiring narrative features fun cartoons, a simple narrative style and a cast of characters chipping in with quotes, jokes and comments.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: data-mce-style=;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0); text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eABOUT THE AUTHOR:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003eSimon Mugford and Dan Green (Illustrator) Simon once worked at the Science Museum in London, where he flew paper aeroplanes and made giant bubbles for children. Now he writes and edits books about things like dinosaurs, ice hockey, thunderstorms and llamas. He lives in Kent with his wife and daughter, a cat and two tortoises. Dan Green has drawn silly pictures since he could hold a crayon. Then he grew up and started making books about stuff like trucks, space, people's jobs, Doctor Who and Star Wars. Dan lives in Suffolk with his wife, son, daughter and dog that takes him for very long walks. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: justify;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: data-mce-style=;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0); text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED48\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePublisher: Welbeck Children's Books \u003cbr\u003ePublished: October 24, 2024\u003cbr\u003ePrice: £6.99\u003cbr\u003eISBN-10: 1804536520\u003cbr\u003eISBN-13: 978-1804536520\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003ePaperback: 128 pages\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDimensions: 129 x 196 mm\u003cbr\u003eReading age: 6 Years and up\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED OCTOBER 2024","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53480142635388,"sku":null,"price":6.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/Kerr-Rules-Football-Superstars.png?v=1726758662"},{"product_id":"1978-the-birth-of-moneyed-modern-football","title":"1978 : The Birth of Moneyed Modern Football","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e1978\u003cbr\u003eThe Birth of Moneyed Modern Football\u003cbr\u003eby \u003cspan\u003eRyan Foley\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003e1978: The Emergence of Wealth Modern Football presents a riveting narrative of a year where tradition met transformation, chaos transformed into brilliance, and groundbreaking ideas confronted established norms. This narrative unfolds through two extraordinary matches: one marred by brutality and the other celebrated as a historic triumph. Yet, it is equally about the myriad events that transpired in the interim. Maverick stars, revered trailblazers, famed managers, legendary trophy-winning sides, apocalyptic showdowns, and developments that transformed the essence of the game are all present: from Britain’s first Black footballing icons to the signing of World Cup-winning Argentineans, from England’s TV channels competing for match rights to the European Economic Community declaring that footballers could play in any of the nine member countries they desired.  1978 marked the beginning of a transformative era, as football began its journey towards becoming the worldwide powerhouse it is now.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0); text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eABOUT THE AUTHOR:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cspan\u003eRyan Foley has been a professional writer and editor for almost three decades. He spent the first seven years of his career as an award-winning sports editor and writer for various newspapers in the New England area and then five years as a magazine editor. Since then, he has dabbled in public relations and marketing for several companies. Additionally, he was a freelance music journalist for more than a decade. This is his second book.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(43, 0, 255);\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePublished: March 31, 2025\u003cbr\u003ePrice: £14.25\u003cbr\u003ePaperback: 329 pages\u003cbr\u003eISBN-10 : \u003cspan\u003e1801509263\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eISBN-13 : \u003cspan class=\"a-text-bold\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e 9781801509268\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDimensions: \u003cspan\u003e216 x 138 \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"unitOfMeasure\"\u003e(mm)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED MARCH 2025","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53622060155260,"sku":null,"price":16.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/The-Birth-of-Moneyed-Modern-Football.png?v=1731430301"},{"product_id":"the-worst-run-club-in-the-country-evertons-downfall-under-farhad-moshiri","title":"The Worst-Run Club in the Country: Everton's Downfall Under Farhad Moshiri","description":"\u003c!--------------------------------------------------\u003e\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"font-size: x-large;\"\u003ePoints Deducted, Dreams Destroyed\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: xx-large;\"\u003e The Everton Meltdown\"\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\u003c!--------------------------------------------------\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003eIn this timely and meticulously researched account, Richard Buxton delivers a compelling autopsy of one of English football's most dramatic corporate failures. The publication of Buxton's book coincides with the conclusion of Farhad Moshiri's turbulent tenure at Everton, marked by the Friedkin Group's takeover in December 2024.\u003cbr\u003eThe author's fifteen years of experience covering Everton prove invaluable as he unravels the complex web of mismanagement that brought one of English football's most storied clubs to its knees. Drawing from his extensive connections within the sport and experience writing for prestigious outlets like FourFourTwo and Sports Illustrated, Buxton provides unprecedented access to the inner workings of a club in crisis. \u003cbr\u003eThe narrative traces Moshiri's tenure from his hopeful arrival in 2016 through to its bitter end, during which he invested approximately £750 million with remarkably little to show for it. Buxton masterfully details how the British-Iranian billionaire's grand ambitions—including expensive transfer sprees and plans for a new stadium—devolved into a cautionary tale of mismanagement and hubris. \u003cbr\u003eParticularly compelling is Buxton's analysis of the financial decisions that led to Everton's unprecedented ten-point deduction and subsequent struggles. The timing of the book's release adds extra weight to these sections, as the club faced additional point deductions and financial scrutiny well into 2025. \u003cbr\u003eThe author doesn't just focus on boardroom drama; he skillfully weaves in the human impact of these decisions, from the managers who came and went to the passionate fanbase whose faith was tested repeatedly. The title, borrowed from Jamie Carragher's scathing Sky Sports assessment, serves as both an attention-grabbing headline and a sadly accurate description of events. \u003cbr\u003eWhat sets this book apart is Buxton's ability to make complex financial and administrative matters accessible without dumbing them down. His previous work on \"Fine Margins,\" exploring the Liverpool-Manchester City rivalry, demonstrated his talent for bringing boardroom stories to life, and he applies that same skill here to even greater effect. \u003cbr\u003eThe book serves as both a gripping chronicle of Everton's recent history and a broader commentary on the perils of modern football ownership. It's a must-read not just for Everton supporters but for anyone interested in the business of football and how even the most established institutions can falter under poor stewardship. \u003cbr\u003eWhile the story Buxton tells is often bleak, it's also timely and necessary. With new ownership now in place and the club facing fresh challenges, this book serves as both a historical document and a warning for the future. \u003cbr\u003eThe Worst-Run Club in the Country is an essential addition to any football literature collection, offering a thorough, engaging, and sometimes painful examination of how not to run a football club. Buxton's journalistic background shines through in his attention to detail and ability to make complex financial matters accessible to all readers.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(43, 0, 255);\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePublished: February 17, 2025\u003cbr\u003ePrice: £13.99\u003cbr\u003ePaperback: 416 pages\u003cbr\u003eISBN-10 : \u003cspan\u003e1801509093\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eISBN-13 : \u003cspan class=\"a-text-bold\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e 9781801509091\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDimensions: \u003cspan\u003e216 x 138 \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"unitOfMeasure\"\u003e(mm)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED FEBRUARY 2025","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53622141518204,"sku":null,"price":13.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/The-Worst-Run-Club-in-the-Country.png?v=1731430040"},{"product_id":"super-squad-the-60s-and-70s-greats-who-transformed-english-football","title":"Super Squad: The 60s and 70s greats who transformed English football","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSuper Squad\u003cbr\u003eThe 60s and 70s greats who transformed English football\u003cbr\u003eby \u003cspan\u003eChris Robinson\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003e\"Super Squad: The 60s and 70s Greats Who Transformed English Football\" by Colin Whelan explores the impactful era of English football during the 1960s and 70s through the stories of 23 influential players. This book provides an insightful look into how these footballers shaped the game and laid the groundwork for modern football.\u003cbr\u003eThe book highlights the careers and contributions of some of the most significant English and Scottish players of the time, including the legendary George Best. We celebrate these players for their exceptional talent and the pioneering roles they played in transforming English football.\u003cbr\u003eBeyond the well-known stars, \"Super Squad\" also pays tribute to the pioneers who introduced new styles of play and broke new ground in the sport, forever changing the landscape of football. .\u003cbr\u003eThe book discusses the abolition of the 'maximum wage' rule, which drastically altered the financial dynamics of football, leading to increased salaries and transfer fees. This economic shift significantly impacted the game, shaping the value of players and the operations of clubs.\u003cbr\u003eWe explore the pivotal role of television, both in colour and black and white, in popularising football and introducing it into millions of homes. This exposure helped elevate the status of the sport and its players.\u003cbr\u003e\"Super Squad\" also pays tribute to the players who faced neglect, ridicule, or oblivion, striving to honour their contributions and preserve their legacy.\u003cbr\u003eThis book is a must-read for football enthusiasts interested in the history and evolution of the sport. It not only celebrates the stars of the era but also provides a comprehensive look at the broader changes that occurred in English football during the 60s and 70s. Readers will gain a deeper appreciation for the players who defined this transformative period and set the stage for the modern game. .\u003cbr\u003eOverall, Colin Whelan’s \"Super Squad\" offers a rich tapestry of stories and insights, making it a valuable addition to the collection of any football fan or historian interested in understanding the roots of today's football culture.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(43, 0, 255);\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-text-bold\"\u003ePublisher: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.troubador.co.uk\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eVisit Troubador Publishing\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePublished: November 2024\u003cbr\u003ePrice: £9.99\u003cbr\u003ePaperback: 136 pages\u003cbr\u003eISBN-10 : \u003cspan\u003e1836281617\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eISBN-13 : \u003cspan\u003e978-1836281610\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDimensions: 129 x 198 (mm)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED NOVEMBER 2024","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54831597551996,"sku":null,"price":9.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/SUPER_SQUAD_d61854cf-3417-4fd1-acc2-65e2e0efa3de.png?v=1735372432"},{"product_id":"cup-finals-the-greatest-football-stories-ever-told","title":"Cup Finals: The Greatest Football Stories Ever Told","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCup Finals\u003cbr\u003eThe Greatest Football Stories Ever Told\u003cbr\u003eby \u003cspan\u003eJason Holyhead\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003e\"Cup Finals: The Greatest Football Stories Ever Told\" by Cliff Hague is an upcoming paperback book, set to be published on April 28, 2025. Cliff Hague, celebrated for his profound admiration of cup finals and his earlier book \"Programmes! Programmes! Football and Life from Wartime to Lockdown\", offers an engaging exploration of the drama and magic associated with the greatest football cup finals.\u003cbr\u003eHague brings his distinctive perspective to the storytelling of football, offering fresh analysis and new insights into the narratives surrounding cup finals.\u003cbr\u003eThe book celebrates some of the most famous cup final games ever played while also shining a light on grassroots football, capturing the essence of the sport at all levels.\u003cbr\u003eIt spotlights players who became legends through their performances at cup finals, exploring how these high-stakes matches have immortalised certain figures in football history.\u003cbr\u003eThe book blends stories involving major British clubs such as Arsenal, Celtic, Liverpool, Manchester City, and Manchester United with those of European and Latin American football giants, showcasing a diverse range of narratives.\u003cbr\u003eBy bringing bygone cup finals to life with iconic photos, the book provides a rich historical context, allowing readers to relive the moments that defined these matches.\u003cbr\u003eIt includes stories from an array of cup finals, such as the World Cup, European Cup, Africa Cup of Nations, the Women's World Cup, and more, covering competitions from Argentina, Bulgaria, and beyond, naturally including the FA Cup.\u003cbr\u003eFrom tales of global superstars like Messi and Mbappé to semi-professional players who became local heroes, the book offers a wide array of stories that capture the passion and spectacle of cup finals.\u003cbr\u003eThe narrative delves into themes of nostalgia, corporate greed, and the enduring question of whose cup it truly is, providing a critical examination of the impact and meaning of these events.\u003cbr\u003eThis book is perfect for football enthusiasts and anyone interested in the rich tapestry of stories that cup finals produce. It promises to be an engrossing read that captures the highs and lows, the heroes and villains, and the sheer drama that make cup finals unforgettable.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c!----------------------------------------------------------------\u003e \u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0); text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eROYAL  MAIL TRACKED 48\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePublished: April\u003cbr\u003ePrice: £14.99 \u003cbr\u003ePaperback: 240 pages\u003cbr\u003eISBN-10: \u003cspan\u003e1801509425\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eISBN-13: \u003cspan\u003e978-1801509428\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDimensions: 216 x 138mm\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED APRIL 2025","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54833256300924,"sku":null,"price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/CUP_FINALS.png?v=1733132455"},{"product_id":"smart-money-the-fall-and-rise-of-brentford-fc","title":"Smart Money: The Fall and Rise of Brentford FC","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Smart Money\u003cbr\u003eThe Fall and Rise of Brentford FC\u003cbr\u003eby Alex Duff \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c!--------------------------------------------------\u003e\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: XX-large;\"\u003eWhen Science Met Soccer\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\u003c!-------------------------------------------------\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003eIn \"Smart Money,\" Alex Duff has crafted something remarkable: a business book that reads like a thriller, a sports story that feels like a scientific breakthrough, and a tale of transformation that would seem improbable if it weren't true. This is Moneyball meets Premier League, but with a distinctly British twist. \u003cbr\u003eThe story begins in the gritty reality of 1978 Brentford, with players stumbling from pub crawls to training sessions via greasy spoon cafes. Duff paints this picture with both affection and precision, setting up the perfect contrast for what was to come: a revolution sparked by an Oxford physics graduate with a gambling algorithm. \u003cbr\u003eAt the heart of this narrative is Matthew Benham, who transformed a £500,000 lifeline into a Premier League powerhouse. What makes Duff's telling so compelling is how he weaves together the human and analytical elements. This isn't just about numbers – it's about how scientific thinking can reshape a century-old institution. \u003cbr\u003eThe book's greatest strength lies in its exploration of Brentford's revolutionary recruitment system. The club maintains a staggering database of 85,500 players and scouts for 16 different positions – not just the traditional 11. Duff explains these complex systems with clarity and flair, making the statistical innovations accessible without dumbing them down. \u003cbr\u003eWhat elevates \"Smart Money\" above a simple success story is its broader implications. Through Brentford's journey, Duff examines how data science and sophisticated statistical analysis are reshaping football recruitment, challenging century-old wisdom about how to build a successful club. \u003cbr\u003eThe narrative is particularly poignant given Brentford's current status. Their rise from a struggling third-division club to a team that consistently performs in the Premier League reads like fiction, but Duff grounds it in careful reporting and deep research. \u003cbr\u003ePerhaps most impressively, Duff manages to maintain suspense even though we know the outcome. His background as a Bloomberg reporter shines through in the precise detail and clear explanation of complex financial and statistical concepts. Yet he never loses sight of the human element – the fans, players, and staff who lived through this transformation. \u003cbr\u003eThe book's structure, moving from smoky pubs to sophisticated algorithms, from local hopes to global ambitions, mirrors Brentford's own journey. Duff's prose is sharp and engaging, with a journalist's eye for the telling detail and a fan's appreciation for the game's romance. \u003cbr\u003e\"Smart Money\" isn't just for football fans or data enthusiasts – it's for anyone interested in how innovation can transform an institution from the inside out. It's a story about seeing value where others don't, about questioning conventional wisdom, and about how sometimes the most revolutionary changes come from the most unlikely places. \u003cbr\u003eIn the end, what makes \"Smart Money\" so compelling is that it's not just about how mathematics changed football – it's about how one club's willingness to think differently challenged an entire industry's assumptions about success. It's a book that will change how you think about not just football, but innovation itself. \u003c!-----------------------------------------------------------\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0); text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePublisher: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.littlebrown.co.uk\/imprint\/lbbg\/page\/little-brown-books\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e Little Brown Books \u003c\/a\u003e \u003cbr\u003ePublished: February 20, 2025\u003cbr\u003ePrice: £10.99\u003cbr\u003eISBN-10: 1408719428\u003cbr\u003eISBN-13: 978-1408719428\u003cbr\u003ePaperback: 336 pages \u003cbr\u003eDimensions: 126 x 197 (mm)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c!-----------------------------------------------------------\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED FEBRUARY 2025","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54852937056636,"sku":null,"price":10.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/SMART-MONEY.png?v=1734818594"},{"product_id":"a-fistful-of-doldrums-view-from-the-north-east-hotbed-1977-79","title":"A Fistful of Doldrums: View From the North East Hotbed 1977-79","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e A Fistful of Doldrums \u003cbr\u003eView From the Northeast Hotbed 1977-79\u003cbr\u003eby David Snowdon \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c!--------------------------------------------------\u003e\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: large;\"\u003eA Rich Chronicle of Football's Most Passionate Region\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\u003c!-------------------------------------------------\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003eDavid Snowdon's latest work is a masterful exploration of a pivotal period in North East football history, focusing on Sunderland AFC during a time of transformation and turmoil. The book's strength lies in its ability to weave together the sporting, cultural, and social fabric of the late 1970s, creating a compelling narrative that extends far beyond the confines of Roker Park. \u003cbr\u003eThe author's academic background shines through in his meticulous research, yet the writing remains accessible and engaging. Snowdon's previous acclaim, including the British Society of Sports History Lord Aberdare Literary Prize, is evident in his skilled handling of both broad historical contexts and intimate personal stories. \u003cbr\u003eThe book's examination of Bob Stokoe's decline is particularly poignant. Stokoe's departure in 1976 and the subsequent appointment of Jimmy Adamson marked a crucial turning point for the club. Snowdon expertly analyses how this transition affected not just the team's fortunes but the wider footballing community in the North East. \u003cbr\u003eOne of the book's most fascinating elements is its exploration of the Brian Clough saga. Clough, who had been a prolific striker for Sunderland in the early 1960s, scoring 63 goals in 74 matches, represents one of football's finest \"what-if\" scenarios. The author's investigation into why this appointment never materialised adds a layer of historical intrigue to the narrative. \u003cbr\u003eThe contribution from Gary Rowell adds authentic first-hand perspective to the era. Rowell, who joined Sunderland as an apprentice in 1972, witnessed this turbulent period from the inside, and his insights provide valuable context to the changing dynamics of both the club and the game itself. His evolution from youth prospect to first-team regular mirrors the broader transitions occurring in football during this period. \u003cbr\u003eSnowdon's portrayal of the late 1970s football culture is particularly vivid. The author captures an era when football was still deeply rooted in local communities—before the commercialization that would transform the sport in subsequent decades. His attention to detail in describing the atmosphere at Roker Park, the characters in the boardroom, and the passionate fan culture creates an immersive reading experience. \u003cbr\u003eThe book excels in its broader contextual analysis, showing how Sunderland's story reflected wider social and economic changes in the North East during the late 1970s. The author's exploration of the club's search for both a \"big name\" manager and a proven striker serves as a metaphor for the region's own quest for identity and success during a period of significant change. \u003cbr\u003eParticularly impressive is Snowdon's ability to balance a serious historical analysis with entertaining anecdotes about the club's colourful characters and memorable moments. \"Wonderfully wacky searches\" for new leadership and talent are described with both humour and insight, highlighting the sometimes chaotic nature of football management in this era. \u003cbr\u003eWhile the book will naturally appeal most to Sunderland supporters, its scope extends far beyond club loyalty. It serves as an important historical document of a crucial period in English football, when the game stood on the cusp of its modern transformation. Snowden's careful attention to the wider social and cultural context of the late 1970s makes this work relevant to anyone interested in British social history. \u003cbr\u003eFor readers seeking to understand how football in the North East evolved from its traditional working-class roots to its current form, \"A Fistful of Doldrums\" provides essential reading. It's a valuable addition to the canon of football literature, offering both scholarly rigour and narrative appeal. Snowdon has created a work that will educate, entertain, and enlighten readers about a fascinating period in football history.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c!-----------------------------------------------------------\u003e \u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0); text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48 \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePublished: April 28, 2025\u003cbr\u003ePaperback: 352 pages\u003cbr\u003eISBN-10: 1801509980\u003cbr\u003eISBN-13: 978-1801509985\u003cbr\u003eDimensions: 216 x 138 (mm)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c!-----------------------------------------------------------\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED APRIL 2025","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54853008425340,"sku":null,"price":16.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/A-FISTFUL-OF-DOLDRUMS.png?v=1734856975"},{"product_id":"irelands-breaking-point-the-world-cup-feud-that-shook-a-nation","title":"Ireland's Breaking Point : The World Cup Feud That Shook a Nation by Payton Winns","description":"\u003c!-----------------------------------------------------------\u003e\u003ccenter\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: xx-large;\"\u003eSaipan's Perfect Storm The Fight\u003cbr\u003eThat Tore Irish Football Apart\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/center\u003e\u003c!-------------------------------------------------\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\" height=\"480\" width=\"480\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/SAIPAN_2025_MOVIE_POSTER.png?v=1738228655\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003eIn the annals of sports controversies, few incidents have captured a nation's attention quite like the Saipan incident of 2002, when Ireland's World Cup dreams imploded before a ball was even kicked. Payton Winns' \"Ireland's Breaking Point\" arrives at a fascinating time, as the wounds from this historic fallout continue to resonate in Irish football. \u003cbr\u003eThis compact but compelling work dives deep into what The Irish Times calls \"a phoney war, where nobody died and everybody lost.\" The brilliance of Winns' narrative resides in its capacity to surpass the straightforward dichotomy of Team Roy versus Team Mick, instead delving into the intricate network of personalities, principles, and pride that precipitated this tumultuous conflict.\u003cbr\u003eThe book's greatest strength is its thorough examination of both principal characters. We see McCarthy, the manager, trying to maintain authority while preparing for Ireland's biggest sporting moment in years, and Keane, the team's best-known, most successful player, whose uncompromising standards clashed with what he perceived as amateur preparations. Winns skilfully portrays how their confrontation became a proxy war for deeper issues in Irish society and sport. \u003cbr\u003eWhat sets this account apart is its exploration of the aftermath. While many know the basic story, Winns reveals how the incident's ripples extended far beyond football. The author shows how the Genesis report would later vindicate many of Keane's criticisms about the Football Association of Ireland's management, adding crucial context to the immediate drama. \u003cbr\u003eThe narrative is particularly strong when examining how this controversy divided Irish society. Through meticulous research and captivating storytelling, Winns demonstrates how the Saipan incident ignited discussions about Irish identity, professionalism, and the interplay between individual principles and collective duty.\u003cbr\u003eHowever, the book occasionally resorts to rehashing well-worn territory. Some readers might wish for more new revelations or insights, especially given the wealth of material already published about this incident over the past two decades. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c!--------------------------------------------------\u003e\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003e \u003cspan style=\"font-size: medium;\"\u003eThe Film That Reopens Ireland's Most Infamous Football Wound\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\n\u003c!--------------------------------------------------\u003e Despite this minor shortcoming, \"Ireland's Breaking Point\" succeeds in its ambitious goal of placing the Saipan incident within a broader cultural and historical context. It's particularly timely given that a film adaptation of these events is now in production, starring Steve Coogan as McCarthy, released in the summer of 2025. \u003cbr\u003eFor football fans, this book offers a thoughtful examination of one of the sport's most fascinating conflicts. For those interested in Irish society and culture, it provides valuable insights into how sporting moments can become cultural touchstones. Winns has crafted a narrative that shows how what happened on a small Pacific island continues to echo through Irish football and society today. \u003cbr\u003eWhile the book might not definitively settle the debate about who was right or wrong in Saipan, it succeeds in something more valuable: helping us understand why this moment continues to captivate and divide opinion more than two decades later. In doing so, it makes a valuable contribution to both sports literature and Irish cultural history. This is essential reading for anyone interested in understanding how a football dispute became a defining moment in modern Irish history and why its implications continue to resonate today. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c!-----------------------------------------------------------\u003e \u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"color: red;\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48 \u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePublisher: Independently Published\u003cbr\u003ePublished:  November 23, 2024\u003cbr\u003ePaperback: £23.93, 80 pages\u003cbr\u003eISBN-13: 979-8300958664\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c!-----------------------------------------------------------\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED NOVEMBER 2024","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54859024859516,"sku":null,"price":23.93,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/SIAPAN_0001.png?v=1737546415"},{"product_id":"turning-points-moments-that-defined-football-history","title":"Turning Points: Moments that Defined Football History","description":"\u003c!-----------------------------------------------------------\u003e\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: large;\"\u003eA Groundbreaking Journey Through Football's Defining Moments\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\u003c!-------------------------------------------------\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003eGreek journalist Marios Mantzos demonstrates in his eagerly awaited second book that he can achieve double success. Following the success of his critically acclaimed \"The Social One,\" which masterfully explored Jürgen Klopp's perfect alignment with Liverpool, Mantzos now broadens his scope to examine the pivotal moments that have shaped football's evolution. \"Turning Points: Moments that Defined Football History\" (set for release on April 7, 2025) is more than just another sports book it's a meticulously researched chronicle that connects seemingly disparate events across football's rich history, revealing how small moments created massive ripples through time. What sets this book apart is Mantzos's remarkable ability to weave together historical events with contemporary implications. Take, for instance, his fascinating exploration of how Marc-Vivien Foé's tragic death in 2003 led to crucial medical protocols that would later help save Christian Eriksen's life. This connection, documented extensively, demonstrates how even the darkest moments in football history have contributed to positive change. \u003cbr\u003eThe author's examination of the FA's 1921 decision to ban women's football serves as a masterclass in how institutional decisions can echo through generations. Similarly, his analysis of how a controversial disallowed goal in 1973 catalysed the Total Football Revolution demonstrates his talent for identifying the ripple effects in football history.\u003cbr\u003eMantzos's journalistic background shines through in his attention to detail and ability to craft compelling narratives from historical records. His treatment of the Frank Lampard \"ghost goal\" incident and its role in ushering in goal-line technology is particularly noteworthy, demonstrating how technological advancement in football often requires controversial catalysts. \u003cbr\u003eThe parade of legendary figures, from Johan Cruyff to David Silva, never feels forced or gratuitous. Instead, these football giants serve as waypoints in a larger narrative about the sport's evolution. Mantzos has a particular talent for humanising these icons while maintaining their historical significance. \u003cbr\u003eWhere the book truly excels is in its ability to connect with both casual fans and hardcore football aficionados. Technical details are explained clearly without condescension, while deeper tactical and historical analyses satisfy more knowledgeable readers. This delicate balance, which Mantzos demonstrated in his previous work, is maintained throughout the book's 320 pages. \u003cbr\u003eIf there's any criticism to be made, it might be that some readers will wish for even deeper dives into certain topics. However, this is less a flaw and more a testament to how engaging each subject proves to be.\u003c!-----------------------------------------------------------\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 0, 0);\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 0, 0);\"\u003ePublished: April 15, 2025\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 0, 0);\"\u003ePaperback: £13.50, 288 pages\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c!-----------------------------------------------------------\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED APRIL 2025","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54859024990588,"sku":null,"price":13.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/Turning-Points.png?v=1735796642"},{"product_id":"my-wrexham-story-the-inspirational-autobiography-from-the-beloved-football-hero","title":"My Wrexham Story: The Inspirational Autobiography From The Beloved Football Hero","description":"\u003c!-----------------------------------------------------------\u003e\u003ccenter\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: xx-large;\"\u003eSuper Paul Mullin \u003cbr\u003eFrom Sunday League to Stardom\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: red;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: large;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePaperback and Hardback are available; choose below.\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/center\u003e\u003c!-------------------------------------------------\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003eFrom Golden Boot winner to Wrexham's unlikely hero, Paul Mullin has captured hearts worldwide as the star striker of Hollywood's favourite football club. Now, for the first time, he shares his remarkable journey from Litherland to global recognition. \u003cbr\u003eMullin's story reads like a script too ambitious for fiction. After claiming League Two's Player of the Season and Golden Boot awards, he made the bold choice to step down a division, joining Wrexham AFC in July 2021. It was a decision that raised eyebrows across English football  and one that would change his life forever. \u003cbr\u003eAs the spearhead of Wrexham's attack, \"Super Paul Mullin\" became more than just a striker. He emerged as a central figure in one of football's most compelling stories, starring alongside Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney in the hit Disney+ series \"Welcome to Wrexham.\" His goals didn't just find the back of the net; they helped write a new chapter in Wrexham's storied history, culminating in the club's long-awaited promotion. \u003cbr\u003eBut this autobiography ventures beyond the pitch. Mullin opens up about his Liverpool roots, the rollercoaster of lower-league football, and the deeply personal journey following his young son's autism diagnosis. Off the field, he serves as a patron for YourSpace, a Wrexham-based autism charity, proving his impact extends far beyond matchday. \u003cbr\u003eFrom the terraces of Morecambe, Swindon Town, and Cambridge United to becoming the face of football's most talked-about club, Mullin's story is a testament to taking chances, defying expectations, and finding purpose in unexpected places. This story goes beyond a footballer's journey; it's an underdog narrative that demonstrates that sometimes the most successful career decisions don't always result in success.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c!-----------------------------------------------------------\u003e \u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0); text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cbr\u003ePublisher: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.penguin.co.uk\/company\/publishers\/cornerstone\/century\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e Century\u003c\/a\u003e Hardback: £20.00, 264 pages; Published 23rd November 2023 Paperback: £9.99, 352 pages; Published 18th July 2024 \u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c!-----------------------------------------------------------\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED JULY 2024","offers":[{"title":"Hardcover £20.00","offer_id":54860414222716,"sku":"","price":20.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Paperback £12.99","offer_id":54860414255484,"sku":"","price":12.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/My-Wrexham-Story.jpg?v=1735904827"},{"product_id":"world-cup-fever-a-footballing-journey-in-nine-tournaments","title":"World Cup Fever: A Footballing Journey in Nine Tournaments","description":"\u003c!--------------------------------------------------\u003e\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 128, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"font-size: xx-large;\"\u003eBeen There\u003cbr\u003eGot the T-Shirt, Wrote the Book: \u003cbr\u003eNine World Cups, One Man's Story\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Verdana;\"\u003eThe Football World Cup is the biggest sporting competition on Earth, a chance every four years for the greatest players to win international glory, and a month-long media spectacle that's watched by an audience of billions.\u003cbr\u003eSince its inception in Montevideo, Uruguay, in July 1930, the tournament has undergone significant transformations. What was once a semi-professional meeting beset by haphazard play has evolved to become a game of multinational buyouts, dubious ethics, and questionable aims. This new era of football has a lot to teach us about our globalised world.\u003cbr\u003eSimon Kuper is among the vanishingly small number of writers who have attended every World Cup since 1990. The World at My Feet is his journey to find the heart of football through the nine tournaments he's experienced firsthand, from watching matches in half-empty stands during Italia 90, a tournament that at times felt like a village fête, to witnessing the French triumph at home in 1998, South Africa's national dream in 2010, and the troubling legacy of Qatar 2022. The story of football's global impact is told in pubs, front rooms, on the streets, and on the pitch.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"color: red;\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr style=\"color: rgb(43, 0, 255);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePublisher: \u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003eGreat Book Selection – Visit  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/profilebooks.com\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eProfile Books\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePublished: 2nd October 2025\u003cbr\u003eHardback: £19.99, 256 pages\u003cbr\u003eISBN-10 : 1805224107\u003cbr\u003eISBN-13: \u003cspan\u003e978-1805224105\u003cbr\u003eDimensions : 236 x 158 (mm) \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED OCTOBER 2025","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54861292732796,"sku":null,"price":19.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/WORLD-CUP-FEVER.png?v=1750143641"},{"product_id":"the-ghost-in-search-of-my-father-the-football-legend-julie-welch-rob-white","title":"The Ghost: In Search of My Father the Football Legend (SOFTCOVER)","description":"\u003c!----------------------------------------------------------------------\u003e\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"font-size: large;\"\u003eThey Called Him The Ghost He'd Strike and Leave\u003cbr\u003e Defenders Wondering Where He'd Come From\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\u003c!---------------------------------------------------------------------\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003eMoving biography of Spurs legend John White, tragically killed by lightning in 1964. Written by his son Rob White with Julie Welch. Features exclusive interviews with Jimmy Greaves and White's double-winning teammates. \u003cbr\u003e• Paperback (June 2012)\u003cbr\u003e• Incredible story of 1960s Spurs hero\u003cbr\u003e• Written by White's son\u003cbr\u003e• Foreword by Jimmy Greaves\u003cbr\u003e• Packed with rare photos\u003cbr\u003e• Great condition\u003cbr\u003e• Perfect for Spurs collection\u003cbr\u003e• Fast dispatch\u003cbr\u003eHighly rated by The Times and Independent. Essential reading for any Tottenham fan. Tells the full story of one of football's most gifted players.\n\u003c!-----------------------------WE HAVE REVIEWED------------------------\u003e\n\n\u003ca alt=\"Book Reviews by www.soccerbooks.co.uk\" href=\"https:\/\/www.soccerbooks.co.uk\/blogs\/soccerbooks-book-reviews\"\u003e \u003cimg alt=\"Book Reviews by www.soccerbooks.co.uk\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/BOOK_REVIEW_LOGO.png?v=1736293623\" width=\"214\" height=\"210\" style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c!----------------------------------------------------------------------\u003e  \u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED 2012","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54865789256060,"sku":"45MAIL","price":11.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/The-Ghost.png?v=1736422015"},{"product_id":"1974-football-in-the-seventies","title":"1974: Football In The Seventies","description":"\u003c!--------------------------------------------------\u003e\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: xx-large;\"\u003e\"A Remarkable Year in Football\"\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\u003c!--------------------------------------------------\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003eStep into 1974 and explore the pivotal matches, captivating stories, and intriguing controversies that defined football during that unforgettable year. Written by the same author who brought us 1923: Life in Football One Hundred Years Ago and 1953: Life in Football Seventy Years Ago. In 1974, Britain was marked by strikes, power outages, a three-day working week, and the onset of the nation’s first official recession in half a century. \u003cbr\u003eFans facing financial difficulties were unable to attend live games, resulting in the prohibition of floodlit matches, the introduction of Sunday football, and a drop in attendance. This engaging read features:A gripping account of the descent into chaos within football culture, highlighting the tragic events surrounding the first terrace murder that cast a dark shadow over the game. An in-depth exploration of Brian Clough’s tumultuous 44-day tenure at Leeds United and the contentious aftermath that followed. The poignant story of Bill Shankly’s departure from his role as Liverpool manager, culminating in a bittersweet conclusion filled with sorrow and blame. An examination of Manchester United’s disastrous season and their first drop from the top tier in over three decades. \u003cbr\u003eThe FA's long-awaited decision to lift the 50-year prohibition on women's football marks a significant turning point in the sport's history. The landscape of amateur football is transforming dramatically with the introduction of paid players, a thorough restructuring of the league hierarchy, and the disbandment of the national England amateur team. \u003cbr\u003eThis narrative explores the journey of Leeds United and Umbro as they led the way in creating the multi-billion-pound replica kit market while also playing a crucial role in introducing sponsorship into the world of football. Discover all this and so much more in this captivating and thoroughly investigated exploration of a remarkable year in football.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout the Author\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eA former journalist, Marvin Close, has written numerous books with a football theme, including 1923: Life in Football One Hundred Years Ago, 1953: Life in Football Seventy Years Ago, and More Than Just a Game: Football vs. Apartheid: The Most Important Football Story Ever Told (with Chuck Korr). Marvin also writes for TV, radio and theatre, including TV shows such as Coronation Street and Emmerdale. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c!--------------------------2025--------------------------\u003e \u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003eROYAL MAIL 48\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePublished: May 19, 2025\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePrice: £16.99 \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePaperback: 288 pages\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eISBN-10: \u003cspan\u003e1836801394\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eISBN-13: \u003cspan\u003e978-1836801399\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions: \u003cspan\u003e216 x 144 \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"unitOfMeasure\"\u003e(mm)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c!------------------------------------------------------------------\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED MAY 2025","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54889968697724,"sku":null,"price":16.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/FOOTBALL_IN_THE_SEVENTIES.png?v=1737533230"},{"product_id":"winner-takes-all-the-history-of-the-championship-play-off-final-world-footballs-richest-game","title":"Winner Takes All: The History of the Championship Play Off Final, World Football's Richest Game","description":"\u003c!--------------------------------------------------\u003e\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: x-large;\"\u003e£300 Million for 90 Minutes\u003cbr\u003eThe Inside Story of Football's Golden Game\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\u003c!--------------------------------------------------\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003eIn his latest work, Aaron Moore proves himself a masterful chronicler of football's most dramatic single match. \"Winner Takes All\" arrives at a fascinating time, as the Championship play-off final continues to be dubbed \"the most valuable single match in world football,\" with current estimates valuing victory at up to £305 million in additional revenue for the winning club. \u003cbr\u003eMoore, who previously captured the grassroots essence of the sport in \"Fields of Dreams and Broken Fences\", brings his characteristic attention to detail and human-focused storytelling to the high-stakes world of championship promotion. His previous work extensively covering non-league football gives him a unique perspective on the football pyramid, allowing him to appreciate both the financial and emotional magnitude of these crucial matches. \u003cbr\u003eThe book's greatest strength lies in its comprehensive approach. Moore weaves together three decades of history through the voices of those who lived it — from Bobby Zamora's heroics to Martin Ling's insights. These first-hand accounts create an intimate portrait of what's at stake beyond the headline-grabbing financial figures. The author has a particular talent for capturing the raw emotion of these career-defining moments, making readers feel as though they're in the tunnel at Wembley alongside the players. \u003cbr\u003eThe financial analysis is equally compelling. Moore breaks down the complex web of revenue streams that make this match so valuable: broadcast rights, commercial opportunities, and matchday income— without getting bogged down in dry statistics. Instead, he uses these numbers to tell a larger story about how the Premier League's financial might has transformed English football. \u003cbr\u003eParticularly fascinating is the book's exploration of how Sky Sports has revolutionised the game's presentation and financial landscape. Moore provides fresh insights into this transformation, avoiding well-worn clichés about modernisation to instead focus on specific ways the broadcast revolution has affected clubs, players, and fans. \u003cbr\u003eThe book's only slight weakness is that some of the earlier playoff final accounts from the 1990s feel less immediate than the more recent ones, likely due to the challenges of gathering detailed firsthand accounts from that era. However, this is a minor quibble in what is otherwise an exemplary piece of sports journalism. \u003cbr\u003e\"Winner Takes All\" succeeds both as a historical document and as a compelling narrative about football's ultimate high-wire act. Moore has crafted an essential read for anyone interested in understanding how a single match came to hold such extraordinary power in English football. His ability to balance the human drama with the broader financial and cultural implications makes this book a worthy addition to any football fan's library. \u003cbr\u003eThe timing of this book feels particularly apt, as the financial stakes of Premier League promotion continue to grow. Moore doesn't just tell us what happened in past finals; he helps us understand what these matches mean for the future of English football. It's this forward-looking perspective, combined with his deep appreciation for the sport's history, that makes \"Winner Takes All\" such a valuable contribution to football literature.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c!--------------------------2025--------------------------\u003e \u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePublished: May 5, 2025\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePrice: £14.99 \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePaperback: 256 pages\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eISBN-10: \u003cspan\u003e1801509611\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eISBN-13: \u003cspan\u003e978-1801509619\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions: \u003cspan\u003e216 x 138 \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"unitOfMeasure\"\u003e(mm)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c!------------------------------------------------------------------\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED MAY 2025","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54890036298108,"sku":null,"price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/WINNER_TAKES_ALL_2025.png?v=1737537987"},{"product_id":"groundhopper-tales-from-footballs-equivalent-of-trainspotting","title":"Groundhopper: Tales from Football's Equivalent of Trainspotting","description":"\u003c!--------------------------------------------------\u003e\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"font-size: x-large;\"\u003eA Hilarious Journey to 100 Football Grounds \u003cbr\u003eWill He Make the Ultimate Sacrifice?\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\u003c!--------------------------------------------------\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003eGroundhopper: Tales from Football's Equivalent of Trainspotting is a paperback book authored by Matt Coughlan, set to be published on March 17, 2025. \u003cbr\u003eMatt’s first book, Turncoat, garnered some reluctant compliments from friends, who remarked, ‘Who knew you could write?’ His mother, on the other hand, deemed it ‘quite good’. ChatGPT expressed a strong opinion: ‘He has a conversational tone and a clear, engaging writing style. The author frequently incorporates anecdotes, personal experiences, and observations, enriching his writing with depth and character. He tends to employ humour and irony to maintain the reader's interest. \u003cbr\u003eMatt Coughlan immerses himself in the captivating realm of the groundhopper, a true enthusiast dedicated to the exploration of football grounds. In a playful exploration of this expanding cultural trend, will Coughlan establish his own groundhopping reputation? \u003cbr\u003eCoughlan embarks on an adventurous quest, determined to elevate his groundhopping count to a remarkable 100 venues. In a remarkable display of dedication, he willingly sacrifices the cultural treasures of Bruges to spend time in a stark concrete stadium. He opts for the least appealing venue in London instead of enjoying the World Cup from the comfort of his home. His journey takes him to various lesser-known footballing locations, where he embraces the charm of vintage grandstands, all in pursuit of his ultimate goal. \u003cbr\u003eThroughout his journey, he engages in opposition scouting, experiences corporate hospitality, delves into the FA’s ground-grading regulations, and uncovers a variety of fantastic non-league clubs. He embarks on a groundhopping weekend in an effort to elevate his standing. But will he succumb to the unspoken guidelines of groundhopping? \u003cbr\u003e\u003c!--------------------------2025--------------------------\u003e \u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePublished: March 17, 2025\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePrice: £16.99 \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePaperback: 288 pages\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eISBN-10: \u003cspan\u003e1801509379\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eISBN-13: \u003cspan\u003e978-1801509374\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions: 216 x 250 (mm)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED MARCH 2025","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54929297277308,"sku":null,"price":16.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/Groundhopper.png?v=1738864269"},{"product_id":"sunderland-afc-the-definitive-history-paperback","title":"Sunderland AFC: The Definitive History (Paperback)","description":"\u003c!-------------------------------------------------\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003eRob Mason's latest work, \"Sunderland AFC: The Definitive History,\" stands as a monumental contribution to football literature, offering an exhaustive examination of one of England's most historic clubs. Released on July 18, 2024, this 320-page hardcover is the most comprehensive account of Sunderland's rich 150-year journey. \u003cbr\u003eMason, who has served as Sunderland's official club historian and has been documenting the club's story for over three decades, brings unparalleled expertise to this work. His intimate knowledge of the club, combined with extensive research and exclusive interviews with key figures, provides readers with both breadth and depth in understanding Sunderland's evolution. \u003cbr\u003eThe narrative begins with the club's humble origins in 1879, founded by a group of ambitious teachers, and traces its path to becoming one of English football's most successful institutions. Mason skilfully weaves together the club's impressive achievements—six top-flight titles and two FA Cup victories—with the human stories that make Sunderland more than just a football club. \u003cbr\u003eWhat sets this book apart is its timing and context. Released as Sunderland continues its resurgence in the Championship, currently sitting in a promising position in the 2024-25 season, the book captures both the historical grandeur and contemporary relevance of the club. Mason particularly excels in documenting the club's recent journey, including the dramatic fall to League One and the subsequent rebuild. \u003cbr\u003eThe author's detailed coverage of the Stadium of Light era demonstrates the club's remarkable supporter loyalty, with regular attendances exceeding 40,000, positioning them as one of the best-supported teams outside the Premier League. Mason's writing style strikes an excellent balance between academic rigour and accessible storytelling. The book is thoroughly researched yet remains engaging, offering both casual fans and serious historians valuable insights into one of football's most storied institutions. This definitive history serves as both a celebration of Sunderland AFC's past glory and a testament to its enduring significance in English football. It's an essential addition to any football literature collection, offering an authoritative account of a club that has helped shape the beautiful game for nearly 150 years.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003e\n\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 170, 255);\"\u003eA masterful blend of historical detail and passionate storytelling that will satisfy both die-hard Sunderland supporters and general football enthusiasts alike. ~ Soccerbooks 2024 \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0); text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePublisher: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.iconbooks.com\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eVisit ICON BOOKS\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e \u003cbr\u003ePublished: June 19, 2025\u003cbr\u003ePrice: £10.99\u003cbr\u003eISBN-13: 9781837731985\u003cbr\u003eHardcover: 320 pages \u003cbr\u003eDimensions: 198 x 129 (mm) \u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED JUNE 2025","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54933675180412,"sku":"35 MAIL","price":10.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/SUNDERLAND-Definitive-History.png?v=1734366584"},{"product_id":"blood-money-to-blue-money-bramley-moore-dock-robert-waterhouse","title":"Bramley Moore Dock: From Slavery to Football at the New Home of Everton FC","description":"\u003c!--------------------------------------------------\u003e\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 51, 153);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"font-size: xx-large;\"\u003eBlood Money to Blue Money\u003cbr\u003eThe True Story of Bramley Moore Dock\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\u003c!--------------------------------------------------\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003eRobert Waterhouse's latest book coincidentally comes at a time when football clubs are grappling with their historical ties to exploitation-based wealth. Waterhouse delves deeply into the complex and often troubling history of the site that will become Everton FC's new home as the club prepares for its historic move to the £760 million Bramley-Moore Dock stadium in summer 2025.\u003cbr\u003eThis meticulously researched work weaves together three distinct but interconnected narratives: Liverpool's role as Britain's largest slave port, the story of John Bramley-Moore's connections to slavery through Brazilian coffee plantations, and Everton FC's own historical links to the slave trade through its early patrons and Methodist church foundations. What emerges is a nuanced exploration of how the wealth generated from human trafficking shaped not just a city but the very foundations of English football. \u003cbr\u003eWaterhouse, already respected for his previous works including \"Everton: The Fans: Born, Not Manufactured\" and \"Liverpool FC Ruined My Life,\" brings his characteristic attention to detail and accessible writing style to this challenging subject matter. His background as a retired teacher serves him well here, as he carefully guides readers through complex historical connections while never losing sight of the human cost at the heart of this story. \u003cbr\u003eThe book's examination of Everton's 30-year journey to find a new home is particularly compelling, detailing the failed attempts at King's Dock and Kirkby before finally settling on Bramley-Moore. But rather than simply chronicling real estate dealings, Waterhouse uses this modern narrative as a lens through which to examine Liverpool's 800-year transformation from medieval port to slave-trading hub to its current regeneration. \u003cbr\u003eWhat sets this book apart is its unflinching approach to difficult truths. While some institutions might prefer to gloss over their connections to slavery, Waterhouse makes a compelling case for why understanding this history is crucial for both football fans and society at large. The author's exploration of how the Methodist church, which played a key role in founding Everton FC, was itself entangled with slavery adds another layer of complexity to an already multifaceted narrative. \u003cbr\u003eThe timing of this publication, coinciding with Everton's imminent move to their new home, gives the book additional resonance. Waterhouse's work, as test events prepare to begin at the new stadium, ensures that fans entering this state-of-the-art facility will understand the significance of the ground beneath their feet and the weight of history it carries.\u003cbr\u003ePerhaps the book's greatest achievement is how it demonstrates that sports history is inseparable from social history. Through careful research and compelling storytelling, Waterhouse shows how the beautiful game we know today was shaped by the ugly realities of Britain's colonial past. \u003cbr\u003eWhile the subject matter is undeniably heavy, Waterhouse manages to maintain an engaging narrative throughout, making complex historical connections accessible without oversimplifying them. The book serves as both a vital historical document and a timely reminder that understanding our past is crucial to building a more equitable future. \u003cbr\u003eFor Everton supporters, this book is essential reading, offering crucial context about their club's new home. But its appeal extends far beyond football fans. Anyone interested in British history, social justice, or the ways in which historical injustices continue to shape our present will find much to ponder in these pages. \u003cbr\u003eWaterhouse has produced a work that does more than just document history; it challenges readers to think deeply about how we reckon with difficult aspects of our past while building for the future. In doing so, he's created what may prove to be his most important contribution to football literature yet. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c!--------------------------2025--------------------------\u003e \u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePublished: February 17, 2025\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePrice: £13.99 \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePaperback: 224 pages\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eISBN-10: \u003cspan\u003e1836802021\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eISBN-13: \u003cspan\u003e978-1836802020\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions: 234 x 250 (mm)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED FEBRUARY 2025","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54936270045564,"sku":null,"price":13.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/BRAMLEY-DOCK.png?v=1747038591"},{"product_id":"cinque-anni-the-story-of-the-italian-national-football-team-2017-2022","title":"Cinque Anni: The Story of the Italian National Football Team: 2017-2022","description":"\u003c!--------------------------------------------------\u003e\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 59, 148);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"font-size: xx-large;\"\u003eFootball's Greatest Comeback\u003cbr\u003eThe Italian Job\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\u003c!--------------------------------------------------\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003eRob Carless's \"Cinque Anni\" perfectly explains one of football's most perplexing stories. How did Italy, four-time World Cup champions, manage to miss two consecutive World Cups yet claim European glory in between? This paradox forms the backbone of Carless's meticulously researched work, which does far more than simply recount five years of Italian football history. \u003cbr\u003eThe book's greatest strength lies in Carless's ability to weave together multiple timelines. While the core narrative focuses on the 2017-2022 period, he skilfully traces the DNA of Italian football back to its origins in the country's port cities. This historical context isn't mere padding; it's essential to understanding how deeply the recent failures cut into the Italian sporting psyche. \u003cbr\u003eCarless uses his decades of sportswriting experience in his storytelling. His previous works on Manchester United and the Football League Cup have clearly honed his ability to balance technical analysis with human drama. The chapter on Italy's Euro 2020 triumph amid the pandemic is particularly moving, capturing both the sporting achievement and its broader significance for a nation that suffered enormously during the early stages of COVID-19. \u003cbr\u003eWhat sets \"Cinque Anni\" apart is its refusal to settle for easy narratives. While lesser writers might have been satisfied to portray the tale as a straightforward redemption story, Carless delves deeper. His exploration of the 1949 Superga air disaster and its long-lasting impact on Italian football adds crucial perspective to modern struggles. The parallel he draws between that tragedy's aftermath and Italy's recent resilience is subtle but powerful. \u003cbr\u003eThe book really shines in its tactical analysis. Carless breaks down key matches with the precision of a football analyst while maintaining the narrative flow of a storyteller. His examination of the failed World Cup qualifying campaigns doesn't just explain what went wrong; it helps readers understand why it went wrong, from systematic issues to specific in-game decisions. \u003cbr\u003eIf there's a criticism to be made, it's that Carless occasionally gets caught up in the minutiae of historical details that, while fascinating, somewhat interrupt the book's momentum. However, this is a minor quibble in what is otherwise an expertly paced narrative. \u003cbr\u003e\"Cinque Anni\" is more than just a sports book; it's a study in how national identity and sporting achievement intertwine. Carless shows us how five years of extreme highs and lows reflect not just the state of Italian football but Italy itself. For anyone interested in understanding how a football powerhouse could experience such dramatic swings of fortune, this book is essential reading. \u003cbr\u003eThe timing of this publication feels particularly poignant as Italy prepares for Euro 2024, adding an extra layer of relevance to Carless's analysis. While the book's title means \"Five Years\" in Italian, its insights will likely remain relevant for many years to come. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c!--------------------------2025--------------------------\u003e \u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePublished: June 2, 2025\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePrice: £16.99 \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePaperback: 256 pages\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eISBN-10: \u003cspan\u003e183680170X\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eISBN-13: \u003cspan\u003e978-1836801702\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions: 154 x 236 (mm)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED JUNE 2025","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54936666702204,"sku":"35MAIL","price":16.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/Cinque-Anni.png?v=1739185652"},{"product_id":"veni-vedi-vici-they-conquered-when-italian-football-ruled-europe-piblished-2025","title":"Veni, Vedi, Vici:: When Italian Football Ruled Europe","description":"\u003c!--------------------------------------------------\u003e\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"font-size: xx-large;\"\u003eFrom Maradona to Maldini\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWhen Italy Made Everyone Else Look Sunday League \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\u003c!--------------------------------------------------\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003eIn his latest work, \"They Came, They Saw, They Conquered,\" Dominic Hougham masterfully chronicles what many consider the absolute pinnacle of club football— the era when Serie A wasn't just a football league but a weekly showcase of the world's finest talents. Hougham, whose writing regularly graces the pages of These Football Times, brings both scholarly rigour and passionate fandom to this vibrant period of football history. \u003cbr\u003eThe book's greatest strength lies in its ability to weave together the many threads that created this golden tapestry. Hougham recounts matches and goals and encapsulates the essence of a time when Serie A was undoubtedly the world's best league, home to an unparalleled array of football stars. His analysis of the Heysel disaster's impact on European football provides crucial context, explaining how Italian clubs seized their moment to rise from relative obscurity to continental dominance. \u003cbr\u003eThe author's treatment of Maradona's turbulent Napoli years is particularly compelling. Rather than merely rehashing well-worn tales, Hougham describes how El Diego's presence in Naples transformed not just a club but an entire city's identity. The chapter on the Dutch trio in Milan, written by Sacchi, reads like a thriller, showing how three Dutchmen revolutionised Italian tactical thinking. \u003cbr\u003eWhat sets this book apart is its attention to the broader cultural impact of calcio's golden age. The section on Channel 4's revolutionary coverage of Italian football perfectly captures how Serie A, featuring the iconic James Richardson, captured the British imagination. Hougham's analysis of Paul Gascoigne's Lazio adventure offers fresh insights into a well-documented saga, examining both its sporting and cultural significance. \u003cbr\u003eThe book's final chapters, dealing with the end of Italian football's dominance, are handled with particular sensitivity. Hougham provides a thoughtful analysis of the economic and structural issues that led to Serie A's gradual decline rather than simply lamenting it.\u003cbr\u003eThere are moments when the book threatens to become overwhelmed by its ambition; covering a decade-plus of football history across multiple clubs is no small task. However, Hough's clear prose and careful organisation kept the narrative running smoothly. His journalist's eye for detail and historian's sense of context ensure that even the most complex storylines remain accessible. \u003cbr\u003eFor those who lived through this era, \"They Came, They Saw, They Conquered\" will feel like leafing through a treasured photo album, each page triggering memories of sublime skills and unforgettable moments. For younger readers, it serves as an essential chronicle of a time when tactical sophistication, defensive mastery, and incredible talent combined to create what many still consider football's most glorious era. \u003cbr\u003eHougham has created more than just a football book; it's a time machine that transports readers to an age when Italian football wasn't just successful but seductive. Every Sunday afternoon held the promise of drama, style, and sophistication. During this period, Calcio held a dominant position. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c!--------------------------2025--------------------------\u003e \u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePublished: June 2, 2025\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePrice: £16.99 \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePaperback: 320 pages\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eISBN-10: \u003cspan\u003e1836801858\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eISBN-13: \u003cspan\u003e978-1836801856\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions: 154 x 236 (mm)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED JUNE 2025","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54936950931836,"sku":"35MAIL","price":16.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/VENI.png?v=1745039233"},{"product_id":"a-completely-different-game-my-leadership-playbook","title":"A Completely Different Game: My Leadership Playbook","description":"\u003ccenter\u003e\n\u003cspan style=\"font-size: large; color: rgb(43, 0, 255);\"\u003e Paperback and hardback are available; choose below.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c!--------------------------------------------------\u003e \u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"font-size: xx-large;\"\u003eFAST \u0026amp; FURIOUS SOCCER EDITION\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: X-large;\"\u003e Emma Hayes's High-Speed Path to Victory\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/center\u003e\u003c!--------------------------------------------------\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003eEmma Hayes's \"A Completely Different Game\" stands out amidst the abundance of leadership books due to its refreshing authenticity and hard-earned wisdom. The timing of this book couldn't be more perfect Hayes has just led the U.S. Women's National Team to Olympic glory and won the 2024 Ballon d'Or as Women's Soccer Coach of the Year, adding to her impressive collection of fourteen major trophies at Chelsea. \u003cbr\u003eWhat makes this book exceptional isn't just Hayes's remarkable track record; it's her ability to translate complex leadership principles into accessible, practical insights. The collaboration with Michael Calvin, an internationally acclaimed sportswriter, ensures the narrative flows naturally between personal anecdotes and leadership lessons, never losing its engaging momentum. \u003cbr\u003eHayes brings an unusual perspective to leadership literature. With a master's degree in intelligence and international affairs, she approaches team management with both analytical rigour and emotional intelligence. Her openness about her ADHD and how it's shaped her management style adds another layer of authenticity to her insights. \u003cbr\u003eThe book's greatest strength is its uncompromising honesty. Hayes doesn't sugarcoat the challenges of leadership or offer a universal solution. Instead, she shares raw, unvarnished stories from her journey, including both triumphs and setbacks. Her recent implementation of \"The WNT Way\" blueprint, which emphasises looking at everything through a \"female lens,\" demonstrates her innovative approach to leadership and her willingness to challenge conventional wisdom. \u003cbr\u003eParticularly compelling is Hayes's discussion of team culture. Her ability to construct team spirit and foster a winning culture has been central to her success, and the book offers valuable insights into how she achieves this. Her philosophy that \"comfort is the death of teams\" challenges readers to rethink their assumptions about motivation and performance. \u003cbr\u003eThe book is structured intelligently, moving between theoretical frameworks and practical applications. Hayes's voice comes through clearly and directly, occasionally blunt, but always thoughtful. Her inclusion of specific training sessions, team talks, and crisis management scenarios provides readers with concrete tools they can apply in their own leadership contexts. \u003cbr\u003eOne minor criticism might be that some readers could find Hayes's intensity overwhelming. Her uncompromising approach to excellence isn't for everyone, but then again, that's precisely her point: authentic leadership isn't about copying someone else's style but about developing your own. \u003cbr\u003e\"A Completely Different Game\" is more than just another sports leadership book. It's a master class in authentic leadership from someone who has consistently succeeded in high-pressure environments while remaining true to her principles. Whether you're leading a sports team, managing a business, or simply interested in personal development, Hayes's insights offer valuable lessons about leadership, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence. \u003cbr\u003eThe book delivers on its promise to help readers \"lead with heart, strength, and authenticity.\" It's a testament to Hayes's legacy not just in football, but in leadership more broadly. Hayes's voice, in an era where leadership books often feel formulaic, stands out with refreshing clarity and conviction.\u003cbr\u003eFive out of five stars: a must-read for anyone interested in leadership, sports management, or the evolution of women's football. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c!--------------------------2025--------------------------\u003e \u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Publisher: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.littlebrown.co.uk\/imprint\/lbbg\/piatkus\/page\/little-brown-books\/lbbg-imprint-piatkus\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eVisit Piatkus\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePublished: May 8, 2025\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePrice: £10.99 \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHardcover: 288 pages\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eISBN-10: \u003cspan\u003e0349443289\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eISBN-13: \u003cspan\u003e978-0349443287\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions: 126 x 198 (mm)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED MAY 2025","offers":[{"title":"Hardcover","offer_id":55226933182844,"sku":"","price":22.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Paperback","offer_id":55226933215612,"sku":"","price":10.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/Emma-Hayes.png?v=1724203758"},{"product_id":"the-english-game-a-journey-of-discovery-in-the-home-of-football","title":"The English Game: A Journey of Discovery in the Home of Football","description":"\u003c!--------------------------------------------------\u003e\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: large;\"\u003e The Book That Takes You to 320 English Football Grounds\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\u003c!--------------------------------------------------\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003eThere's something deeply poetic about an Italian teenager landing in England with nothing but a one-way ticket and an obsession with football. In \"The English Game: A Journey of Discovery in the Home of Football\", Ivan Ambrosio transforms that seemingly reckless leap of faith into a remarkable chronicle of both personal growth and footballing heritage. \u003cbr\u003eThis isn't just another book about English football — it's a love letter to the game's soul, written by an outsider who became an insider. Through 52 meticulously crafted stories, Ambrosio takes readers on a journey that stretches far beyond the familiar confines of Premier League glamour, diving into the heart of English football's grassroots culture. \u003cbr\u003eWhat sets this book apart is Ambrosio's gift for finding extraordinary stories in ordinary places. His account of playing for Upton Park FC against the Royal Engineers reads like a time-travel adventure, while his exploration of the Isles of Scilly League—the world's smallest football league— captures the kind of quirky charm that makes English football unique. These aren't just stadium visits; they're pilgrimages to the sport's sacred grounds. \u003cbr\u003eThe author's perspective as both participant and observer gives the narrative a refreshing authenticity. When he describes awarding the victory trophy to Sheffield FC after their match against Hallam FC, you can feel the weight of history in his hands — these are, after all, the world's two oldest football clubs. Through encounters with characters like Morgan, the lifelong Fulham supporter who witnessed legends like Pelé and George Best grace Craven Cottage, Ambrosio weaves individual memories into the larger tapestry of football history. \u003cbr\u003eBut perhaps the book's greatest achievement is how it mirrors Ambrosio's own transformation. The wide-eyed 19-year-old who arrived with nothing gradually evolves into a qualified coach and astute chronicler of English football culture. His journey from visiting his first English stadium to completing a tour of over 320 grounds becomes a metaphor for personal growth and cultural integration. \u003cbr\u003eThe writing style is refreshingly unpretentious, mixing the enthusiasm of a fan with the insight of a historian. Ambrosio's Italian perspective allows him to see things that might be invisible to native English eyes, while his immersion in the culture gives him the authority to interpret what he sees. \u003cbr\u003eSome readers might find the book's structure—52 separate stories— occasionally disjointed. However, this format ultimately benefits the book, enabling readers to explore it at their own pace while still adhering to the overall story of Ambrosio's personal journey. \u003cbr\u003e\"The English Game\" is more than a sports book — it's a reminder that football's true magic often lies far from the spotlight of Super Sundays and Champions League nights. From the historic Sandygate ground to the windswept pitches of the Scilly Isles, Ambrosio shows us that every football ground has a story worth telling, and every true fan has a voice worth hearing. \u003cbr\u003eFor anyone who believes football is more than just a game, this book is an essential addition to their library. It's a testament to how the beautiful game can shape lives, bridge cultures, and create connections that transcend the pitch. Ambrosio's journey from Italian dreamer to English football chronicler isn't just inspiring — it's a reminder that sometimes the best stories in football are written by those who dare to follow their passion, regardless of where it leads. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c!--------------------------2025--------------------------\u003e \u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePublished: May 19, 2025\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePrice: £14.99 \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePaperback: 320 pages\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eISBN-10: \u003cspan\u003e1836801416\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eISBN-13: \u003cspan\u003e978-1836801412\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions: 154 x 236 (mm)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED MAY 2025","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54968375673212,"sku":null,"price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/The-English-Game.png?v=1740310459"},{"product_id":"diamonds-in-the-rough-non-league-footballs-biggest-success-stories","title":"Diamonds in the Rough: Non-League Football's Biggest Success Stories","description":"\u003c!--------------------------------------------------\u003e\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"font-size: xx-large;\"\u003eThink You've Missed Your Chance?\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: xx-large;\"\u003e Think Again!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\u003c!--------------------------------------------------\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003eIn an era where Premier League superstars command astronomical salaries and global attention, Joseph Pope's \"Diamonds in the Rough\" arrives as a refreshing reminder of football's grassroots heart. The book's timing couldn't be better, especially as the ultimate non-league success story, Jamie Vardy, retains his motivation as the striker who commanded a then-record £1 million fee for a non-league player when Leicester City took a chance on him from Fleetwood Town. \u003cbr\u003ePope, whose \"Off the Line Blog\" has earned well-deserved recognition in football circles, brings his intimate knowledge of the non-league scene to bear in this compelling collection of 100 success stories. His experience as a Torquay United supporter since 2008 lends authenticity to his storytelling; this isn't just research compiled from newspaper clippings but rather a passionate chronicle from someone who has lived and breathed lower-league football. \u003cbr\u003eThe Vardy chapter stands out as particularly compelling, tracing his remarkable journey from Halifax Town to Fleetwood Town for £150,000 before his career-defining move to Leicester City. His story exemplifies the book's central theme: that sometimes the greatest talents need the non-league crucible to forge their potential into Premier League quality. \u003cbr\u003eWhat sets this book apart is its attention to detail and the depth of its reporting. The book's emotional core is provided by the personal narratives, which remind us that behind every statistical success story lies a human tale of perseverance. Vardy's remarkable journey from factory worker to Premier League champion provides an ideal framework for comprehending the ongoing nurturing and development of top talent in non-league football.\u003cbr\u003eThe section on scouting provides fascinating insights into the talent identification process, offering readers a behind-the-scenes look at how clubs unearth \"non-league gems.\"  Vardy's success has significantly changed the way Premier League clubs perceive non-league talent, demonstrating the existence of undiscovered gems.\u003cbr\u003ePope's writing style strikes an excellent balance between accessibility and expertise. He avoids getting bogged down in technical jargon while still providing enough tactical detail to satisfy serious football enthusiasts. The inclusion of exclusive interviews adds authority to the narrative, while the \"trip on the Tube\" chapter cleverly frames London's non-league scene in a way that will resonate with both locals and outsiders. \u003cbr\u003eSome readers may want more detail about certain players' stories. However, the lack of detail is less a flaw than a testament to how engaging each narrative proves to be. \u003cbr\u003e\"Diamonds in the Rough\" is more than just a collection of success stories; it's a celebration of football's meritocratic potential and a reminder that outstanding talent can emerge from anywhere. For anyone interested in football's less glamorous but equally compelling lower tiers, this book is an essential read. It's also a valuable resource for young players and coaches, offering practical insights into what it takes to climb the football pyramid. \u003cbr\u003eIn an age where football can seem increasingly divorced from its roots, Pope's book serves as a vital reminder of the sport's democratic essence. These stories of determination, skill, and luck combine to create a thoroughly engaging narrative that will appeal to football fans of all stripes. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePublished: July 21, 2025\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePrice: £19.99\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePaperback: 288 pages\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eISBN-10: \u003cspan\u003e1836801548\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eISBN-13: \u003cspan\u003e978-1836801542\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions: 216 x 138 (mm)\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED JULY 2025","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54984747024764,"sku":null,"price":19.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/Diamonds-in-the-Rough.png?v=1742835782"},{"product_id":"the-not-so-secret-diary-of-a-footballer-a-behind-the-scenes-look-into-the-life-of-a-lioness","title":"The Not-So-Secret Diary of a Footballer: A behind-the-scenes look into the life of a Lioness","description":"\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: xx-large;\"\u003eGOALS, GIGGLES \u0026amp; GOSSIP\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: x-large;\"\u003e Explore Inside My Life as a Lioness!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003eA sports memoir that doesn't take itself too seriously is wonderfully refreshing. In \"The Not-So-Secret Diary of a Footballer\", Ella Toone, the beloved Lioness from England, provides us with a candid and entertaining glimpse behind the scenes of women's football, which is both insightful and genuinely funny. \u003cbr\u003eThe timing of this book couldn't be better. Toone, who recently lit up the WSL with a stunning hat trick in Manchester United's derby victory over City, brings the same electric energy to her writing that she displays on the pitch. After recovering from a two-month injury absence to win the January 2025 PFA Fans' Player of the Month, Toone has demonstrated her understanding of both setbacks and comebacks, themes that naturally permeate her narrative.\u003cbr\u003eWritten in diary format, the book strikes a perfect balance between the glamour of international football and the very human moments that make Toone so relatable. Whether she's describing pre-match jitters or post-victory celebrations, her voice remains authentically herself—chatty, warm, and often hilarious. It's like sitting down for a coffee with your most football-obsessed friend, who happens to be a European champion. \u003cbr\u003eWhat sets this book apart from typical sports memoirs is its willingness to embrace the lighter side of professional football. Toone's accounts of team pranks and behind-the-scenes hijinks offer a refreshing counterpoint to the pressure-cooker environment of elite sports. Yet she never loses sight of the book's deeper purpose: inspiring the next generation of players. After the success of her previous collaboration, \"Three Lionesses\", Toone has evidently mastered the art of engaging with younger readers.\u003cbr\u003eThe diary format works particularly well here, making the high-stakes world of professional football accessible to readers of all ages. Toone's decision to structure the narrative around a major tournament provides natural tension, while her \"flashbacks\" offer valuable context about her journey from the Manchester United youth academy to becoming a European champion. \u003cbr\u003ePerhaps the book's greatest strength is its honesty about the mental challenges of professional sports. Toone doesn't shy away from discussing her nerves or uncertainties, making her triumphs all the more meaningful. In an era where athletes are increasingly opening up about mental health, her candour feels both timely and important. \u003cbr\u003eWhile die-hard football fans will appreciate the tactical insights and training ground details, you don't need to be a football expert to enjoy this book. Toone's personality shines through on every page, making it an engaging read for anyone interested in what it takes to succeed at the highest level of sports. \u003cbr\u003e\"The Not-So-Secret Diary of a Footballer\" is more than just another sports memoir—it's a testament to the growing prominence of women's football and the characters who make the sport so compelling. Toone has delivered a winner that, like her performances on the pitch, leaves you wanting more. \u003cbr\u003ePerfect for: young football enthusiasts, aspiring athletes, and anyone who enjoys a behind-the-scenes look at professional sports. The accessible writing style makes this book particularly suitable for readers aged 9-14, while also providing plenty of enjoyment for adults.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch2 style=\"text-align: center;\" align=\"justify\"\u003ePLUS FREE 2025 ANNUAL WITH THIS PURCHASE \u003cbr\u003e\u003c!--------------------------2025--------------------------\u003e\n\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0); text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Publisher: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.penguin.co.uk\/discover\/puffin\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eVisit PUFFIN\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePublished: April 17, 2025\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePrice: £9.99 \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePaperback: 224 pages\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eISBN-10: \u003cspan\u003e0241771587\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eISBN-13: \u003cspan\u003e978-0241771587\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions: 153 x 216 (mm)\u003cbr\u003eReading Age: 9 - 13 years \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED APRIL 2025","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54990604501372,"sku":null,"price":9.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/The-Not-So-Secret-Diary-of-a-Footballer.png?v=1741022038"},{"product_id":"breaking-the-grass-ceiling-the-history-of-the-womens-football-association","title":"Breaking the Grass Ceiling : The History of the Women's Football Association","description":"\u003c!--------------------------------------------------\u003e\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: xx-large;\"\u003eThey Told Us We Couldn't Play\u003cbr\u003eWe Made Our Own League\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\u003c!--------------------------------------------------\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003ePatricia Gregory's \"Breaking the Grass Ceiling\" arrives at a pivotal moment in women's football history, offering an exhaustively researched account of the Women's Football Association from 1967 to 1993. This meticulously documented narrative fills a crucial gap in sports literature, revealing the untold story of how a determined group of individuals fought to resurrect women's football in England after decades of institutional opposition. \u003cbr\u003eThe book's greatest strength lies in its comprehensive approach to storytelling. Gregory weaves together archival research with firsthand accounts from 96 former England players, creating a tapestry that captures both the institutional challenges and personal triumphs of the era. The narrative begins with the Deal Women's Football tournament in 1967, a seemingly modest event that would spark a revolution in women's sports. \u003cbr\u003eParticularly compelling is the book's examination of the infamous 1921 FA ban, which effectively prevented women from playing on any FA-affiliated grounds for nearly 50 years. Gregory's research reveals how this ban was often misinterpreted as a complete prohibition on women's football, demonstrating how institutional power can shape social norms far beyond its official reach. \u003cbr\u003eThe author excels at highlighting the grassroots nature of the women's game's revival. The account of the Women's FA's inaugural meeting in 1969, attended by 44 clubs and 7 leagues, reads like a resistance movement's origin story. These pioneers operated with minimal resources but maximum determination, laying the groundwork for today's professional women's football landscape. \u003cbr\u003eOne of the book's most valuable contributions is its detailed examination of the period following the ban's lifting in 1970. Recent research has shown this era wasn't glamorous but was perhaps the most remarkable in women's football history, as volunteers worked tirelessly to build a national cup competition and establish an official England team from scratch. \u003cbr\u003eGregory's work gains additional relevance in light of new research from Bournemouth University about the complex legacy of the FA's 1993 takeover of women's football. This context makes the book's detailed account of the Women's FA's independent years even more valuable for understanding the sport's evolution. \u003cbr\u003eThe author's decision to focus on the administrative and organisational aspects of women's football might seem dry on paper, but she brings these struggles to life through personal stories and previously unpublished details. The result is a compelling narrative about persistence in the face of institutional opposition, making this book relevant not just to sports historians but to anyone interested in social change and gender equality. \u003cbr\u003e\"Breaking the Grass Ceiling\" serves as both a historical document and a reminder that the current success of women's football didn't happen by accident. It was built on the shoulders of countless volunteers, players, and administrators who refused to accept that football wasn't for women. In an era where women's football is finally getting the recognition it deserves, this book provides crucial context for understanding how far the sport has come and the debt owed to its early pioneers. \u003cbr\u003eThis thoroughly researched work stands as an essential addition to sports history literature, documenting a critical period that shaped not just women's football, but women's sports as a whole. It's a testament to the power of collective action and the importance of preserving the stories of those who fought for change, even when victory seemed impossible. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c!--------------------------2025--------------------------\u003e \u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePublished: May 15, 2025\u003cbr\u003ePublisher: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/thehistorypress.co.uk\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eVisit The History Press\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePrice: £16.99\u003cbr\u003ePaperback: 256 pages\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED MAY 2025","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55012325884284,"sku":"35MAIL","price":16.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/BREAKING-GLASS.png?v=1742299829"},{"product_id":"true-genius-george-best-new-paperback-oct-2025","title":"True Genius: George Best: The games, the goals, the glory: The complete untold story","description":"\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 128, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"font-size: xx-large;\"\u003eThe Genius of George\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: x-large;\"\u003e Football's Greatest Story Finally Told\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Verdana;\"\u003e In an era where football biographies often sensationalise off-field drama, Wayne Barton's \"True Genius\" stands as a refreshing testament to George Best's final wish: \"Remember me for football.\" This paperback release, coinciding with the 20th anniversary of Best's passing, delivers exactly that—a meticulous chronicle of one of football's most mesmerising talents. \u003cbr\u003eBarton, widely recognised as Manchester United's preeminent chronicler, has crafted what may be the most comprehensive account of Best's playing career to date. What sets this biography apart is its laser focus on Best's footballing genius, backed by unprecedented family cooperation and exhaustive research. \u003cbr\u003eThe book's greatest strength lies in its attention to detail. It provides football historians and fans with a wealth of information, complete with detailed statistics of every game, including minutiae such as shirt numbers worn in each match. Barton's research goes beyond mere numbers, painting vivid pictures of Best's journey from the Manchester United youth setup to becoming a European Champion and Ballon d'Or winner in 1968. \u003cbr\u003eThe narrative skilfully traces Best's meteoric rise, highlighting his instrumental role in securing two First Division titles in 1965 and 1967. Through carefully sourced accounts from teammates, managers, and family members, Barton reconstructs the electric atmosphere of Old Trafford during Best's peak years, when he played nearly 500 games for Manchester United and dazzled as his side lifted two league titles and the European Cup. \u003cbr\u003eWhat makes this biography particularly valuable is its successful balance between scholarly rigour and accessible storytelling. The inclusion of rare and restored images from the Daily Mirror archives adds a vital visual dimension to Best's story, helping modern readers understand why he became arguably the world's first true football superstar. \u003cbr\u003eThe book's success in capturing Best's essence is perhaps best evidenced by its adaptation into a BT Sport documentary, which further cemented its status as the definitive account of Best's footballing legacy. \u003cbr\u003eHowever, readers seeking salacious details about Best's personal struggles will need to look elsewhere. This is deliberately and refreshingly a football book about a footballer—exactly how Best wanted to be remembered. In this regard, Barton has accomplished a remarkable feat: he has restored George Best, the footballer, to his full glory.\u003cbr\u003e\"True Genius\" is not just another football biography; it's a meticulously researched historical document that finally does justice to Best's sporting legacy. For anyone seeking to understand why Best is considered one of football's greatest ever players, his biography is now the essential text. \u003cbr\u003eThe world lost a true footballing genius when George Best, the Belfast Boy who redefined what was possible on a football pitch, died aged 59. Best's mercurial talent first dazzled at Manchester United, where he won two league titles and the European Cup, earning the Ballon d'Or and the nickname 'El Beatle' for his combination of athletic brilliance and pop-star charisma. While his later years were marked by personal struggles, his pure footballing legacy remains untouchable—Pelé called him \"the greatest player in the world,\" and his supernatural ability to beat defenders, score impossible goals, and play with unmatched creativity inspired generations of players. Best's famous quote, \"I spent a lot of money on booze, birds, and fast cars; the rest I just squandered,\" captured his wit and complexity, but as he wished, it's for the football that he should be remembered— the moments of pure magic when he made the beautiful game even more beautiful. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c!--------------------------2025--------------------------\u003e \u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePublished: October 9, 2025\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePrice: £12.99\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePaperback: 448 pages\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eISBN-10: \u003cspan\u003e1916811353\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eISBN-13: \u003cspan\u003e978-1916811355\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions: 198 x 129 (mm)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED OCTOBER 2025","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55123888603516,"sku":null,"price":12.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/GEORGE_BEST.png?v=1744962670"},{"product_id":"football-crazy-corinthians-mad-the-small-world-of-headliners-prostars-and-microstars-figures-no-1","title":"Football Crazy, Corinthians Mad!: The Small World of Headliners, ProStars and MicroStars Figures: No 1","description":"\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"font-size: xx-large;\"\u003eThe Bible of Tiny Football Legends\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003e\n\u003cspan style=\"font-size: medium;\"\u003e Imagine holding the entire Premier League in your palm—not metaphorically, but quite literally. That's what Corinthians brought to life in the mid-1990s, creating a revolution in football collectibles that would span more than a decade and capture the hearts of fans worldwide. \u003cbr\u003eThe year was 1996, and football was indeed coming home to England. As Euro 96 fever gripped the nation, a small company unleashed something unprecedented: perfectly sculpted 3-inch figures of the England squad. These weren't your ordinary toys—each bore an uncanny resemblance to its real-life counterpart, from David Seaman's distinctive moustache to Alan Shearer's characteristic goal celebration pose. \u003cbr\u003eWhat set these figures apart wasn't just their remarkable attention to detail. Every miniature footballer wore meticulously painted kit details, down to the tiniest sponsor's logo. The badges on their chests gleamed with pride, and the numbers on their backs were exactly as you'd see them on match day. Some collectors swear they could spot Gazza's cheeky grin from across a room. \u003cbr\u003eHowever, the world of miniatures was not without its challenges. Controversies erupted over certain sculpts—was that really meant to be Ryan Giggs? And why did some players look more robust than their real-life counterparts? These quirks only added to their charm, sparking passionate debates in playgrounds and pubs alike. \u003cbr\u003eThe phenomenon grew faster than anyone could have predicted. From that initial England squad of sixteen figures, the Corinthians empire expanded to encompass more than 150 teams and 5,000 players. For serious collectors, limited editions became the ultimate prize, and fans would queue outside shops on release days for variant kits and special releases.\u003cbr\u003eFor many, these figures weren't merely toys—they were time capsules, each one capturing a moment in football history. Whether it was the '98 World Cup winners or that iconic Manchester United treble-winning squad, Corinthians preserved these teams in perfect, pocket-sized perpetuity.\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePublisher: \u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003eBuy Accessories\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(43, 0, 255);\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.conkereditions.co.uk\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eConker Editions\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cbr\u003ePublished: May 9, 2025\u003cbr\u003ePrice: £14.99\u003cbr\u003ePaperback: 212 pages\u003cbr\u003eISBN-10: 1068700904\u003cbr\u003eISBN-13: 978-1068700903\u003cbr\u003eDimensions: 149 × 105 (mm) \u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED MAY 2025","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55147941593468,"sku":null,"price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/FOOTBALL-CRAZY.png?v=1745566580"},{"product_id":"last-boy-of-66-paperback-published-8th-may-2025","title":"Last Boy of ’66 ~ Paperback Published 8th May 2025","description":"\u003c!-----\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: x-large; color: rgb(16, 111, 1);\"\u003ePaperback 304 pages\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"font-size: xx-large;\"\u003eThey Think It's All Over... \u003cbr\u003eBut The Memories Never Fade\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003e\n\u003cspan style=\"font-size: medium;\"\u003eThe morning following our World Cup victory, I found myself cutting the lawn. It wasn't some grand gesture or attempt to stay grounded—it's just what you did on a Sunday in 1966. The entire experience following our World Cup victory made me reflect on my life sixty years later. We were just ordinary lads who happened to be rather talented at football. \u003cbr\u003eI remember standing in the tunnel at Wembley that day, the roar of ninety thousand fans sending vibrations through the concrete. Bobby Moore, our captain, stood tall as always, his talented hair immaculate even before kick-off. We weren't millionaires like today's players—we were working-class boys who earned £60 a match. Our boots were heavy leather, our shorts reached our knees, and our shirts could double their weight in rain. \u003cbr\u003eThe Germans were tough opponents, technically brilliant and physically imposing. When Wolfgang Weber equalised in the final minute of normal time, making it 2-2, I thought our chance had gone. But Alf Ramsey, cool as ever, simply said during the break, \"You've won it once; now go and win it again.\" \u003cbr\u003eThat famous moment in extra time—my second goal—still sparks debate. Is it true that the ball went over the line? Roger Hunt, who was closest, always said he saw it clearly go in, which is why he immediately turned away celebrating instead of following up. Is it true that the ball went overfried Dienst consulted his Russian linesman, Tofik Bakhramov, and the goal stood. The stadium erupted. \u003cbr\u003eLooking back now, what strikes me most is how different football was then. We engaged in the game out of passion and pride for the uniform. There were no agents, no sponsorship deals, and no social media. After training, we'd often pop into the local pub together—try suggesting that to today's Premier League managers! We formed bonds that lasted a lifetime, though sadly, many of my teammates are no longer with us. \u003cbr\u003eThe '66 squad came from an England that's vanished now—of factory workers and miners, of council houses and corner shops. We weren't celebrities in the modern sense; we were just footballers who happened to achieve something extraordinary. Perhaps that's why the victory meant so much to people. We were them, and they were us.\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(16, 111, 1);\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHere is what Sir Geoff Hurst has been doing in the last decade (2015-2025):\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(16, 111, 1);\"\u003eSir Geoff Hurst has remained active in football and charity work over the past decade. As the last surviving member of England's 1966 World Cup final team, he has taken on an important role as a keeper of memories and football heritage. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(16, 111, 1);\"\u003eKey activities include: \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(16, 111, 1);\"\u003e1. Theatre Tours: He's currently conducting his final theatre tour in 2025, titled \"The Last Man Standing, sharing stories from his remarkable career. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(16, 111, 1);\"\u003e2. Charity Work: Since 2020, he has served as an ambassador for Sue Ryder Leckhampton Court Hospice in Cheltenham, a cause he holds dear, as the hospice provided care for his daughter Claire.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(16, 111, 1);\"\u003e3. Commercial Partnerships: He has maintained his role as a brand ambassador for Budweiser, the official beer of the England football team. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(16, 111, 1);\"\u003e4. Digital Advocacy: He's been working with AbilityNet charity to inspire seniors to embrace technology, sharing his experiences with digital adaptation. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(16, 111, 1);\"\u003e5. Football Ambassador: He continues to attend England games at Wembley and makes regular personal appearances at football-related events. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(16, 111, 1);\"\u003eSir Geoff currently resides in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, with his wife Judith, whom he has been married to since 1964.\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Publisher: Visit \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.penguin.co.uk\/about\/publishing-houses\/ebury\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eEbury Publishing\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e \u003cbr\u003ePublished: May 8, 2025\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePrice: £10.99\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePaperback: 304 pages\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eISBN-10: \u003cspan\u003e152993849X\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eISBN-13: \u003cspan\u003e978-1529938494\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions: 128 x 198 (mm)\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED MAY 2025","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55188556513660,"sku":null,"price":10.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/LAST_MAN_STANDING.png?v=1746459110"},{"product_id":"more-than-maradona-the-birth-death-and-rebirth-of-ssc-napoli-paperback","title":"More than Maradona: The Birth, Death and Rebirth of SSC Napoli PAPERBACK","description":"\u003c!--------------------------------------------------\u003e\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"font-size: xx-large;\"\u003eThe Good, The Bad, and Maradona\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\u003c!--------------------------------------------------\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003eTiming, they say, is everything. Kirsten Schlewitz couldn't have picked a better moment to release this comprehensive history of SSC Napoli. Published in the wake of the club's historic 2023 Serie A triumph, their first in 33 years—the book arrives when the world's eyes are once again fixed on the passionate football city of Naples. \u003cbr\u003eHowever, the true specialness of \"More than Maradona\" lies not in its timeliness but in its ambition to transcend the enduring influence of its titular figure. Schlewitz boldly argues that the club's story is far richer and more complex than just those glory years, even though Diego Maradona's seven-season spell at Napoli remains legendary.\u003cbr\u003eThe book's structure is masterful in its simplicity. Rather than getting bogged down in strict chronology, Schlewitz weaves together three distinct narratives: the club's sporting journey, the city's cultural evolution, and the passionate relationship between the two. This approach enables her to discuss the emergence of Napoli as a unique entity in modern football, a city where both sporting and cultural identities are intrinsically linked.\u003cbr\u003eWhat's particularly refreshing is how the author handles the Maradona years. Instead of rehashing well-worn tales, she uses them as a lens to examine larger themes: the north-south divide in Italian football, the economic realities of Serie A in the 1980s, and the complex relationship between individual genius and collective achievement. The result is a nuanced portrait that neither diminishes Maradona's impact nor allows it to overshadow the club's broader history. \u003cbr\u003eThe book's final chapter, covering Napoli's triumphant 2022-23 campaign, feels like a perfect capstone to the narrative. The team's dominant performance, securing the title with five games to spare and a 16-point gap to second place, serves as proof of Schlewitz's central thesis: that Napoli's story is one of continuous renewal and resilience, not just past glory. \u003cbr\u003eThe book excels in its careful attention to detail. In English-language accounts of Italian football, Schlewitz has meticulously uncovered intriguing characters and moments. From the club's founding figures to modern-day heroes, each character is rendered with depth and humanity. \u003cbr\u003eThe inclusion of Marcus Marritt's illustrations adds another dimension to the storytelling, capturing the visual drama of key moments in the club's history with striking elegance. These artistic interludes complement the narrative perfectly, providing welcome pauses for reflection in what is otherwise a densely packed historical account. \u003cbr\u003eThe book sometimes assumes readers know Italian football, which may not be true. However, this is a minor quibble in what is otherwise an accomplished work of sports literature. \u003cbr\u003e\"More than Maradona\" is more than just a football book. it's a love letter to Naples, a study in sporting culture, and a reminder that even the most iconic figures are part of something larger than themselves. For anyone interested in football history, Italian culture, or simply great storytelling, this book is an essential read. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c!--------------------------2025--------------------------\u003e \u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Publisher: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.highpress.co\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eVisit High Press Publishing\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePublished: October 31, 2024\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePrice: £14.99 \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePaperback: 304 pages\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eISBN-10: \u003cspan\u003e1738449610\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eISBN-13: \u003cspan\u003e978-1738449613\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions: 152 x 228 (mm)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED OCTOBER 2024","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55192384536956,"sku":null,"price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/More-than-Maradona.png?v=1740216657"},{"product_id":"states-of-play-how-sportswashing-took-over-football","title":"States of Play ~ How Sportswashing Took Over Football","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: x-large; color: rgb(16, 111, 1);\"\u003e Paperback\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"font-size: xx-large;\"\u003eRed Cards for Corruption\u003cbr\u003eExposing the Game Behind the Game\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003e\n\u003cspan style=\"font-size: medium;\"\u003eStates of Play: How Sportswashing Took Over Football by Miguel Delaney is, as The Guardian declares, “important, perfectly timed and hugely necessary.” In a world where football is no longer just a game but a global commodity, Delaney’s investigation is both timely and urgent. As the 2022 World Cup in Qatar concluded, Argentina’s on-pitch glory was tainted by a “bitter undercurrent”, with “numerous allegations of sportswashing and financial misconduct” swirling around the host nation. These events, Delaney argues, forced a crucial question into global consciousness: who really owns and runs football? \u003cbr\u003eDelaney embarks on a journey from Abu Dhabi to Newcastle, London, Paris, Moscow, and New York, unveiling the mechanisms that have revolutionised the beautiful game. “Magnificent. Some of the details are eye-popping,” writes the Irish Independent, and indeed, readers are taken behind the scenes of Neymar’s staggering £198 million transfer to Paris Saint-Germain and the rise of Abu Dhabi’s construction empire in Manchester. In these pages, Delaney reveals how state-backed corporations, oil-rich oligarchs, and media tycoons have manipulated football’s global appeal for their ends. \u003cbr\u003eThis work is not merely an exposé of financial power. Delaney utilises exclusive interviews and unparalleled access to scrutinise the shortcomings of Financial Fair Play regulations and the brief existence of the European Super League, illustrating the challenges faced by regulatory efforts in the face of capital. The Irish Times calls it “a monumental piece of investigative journalism”, while Ian Wright insists it is “a must-read on how modern football works”. Tom Holland goes further, calling it “brave, forensic and utterly gripping”. \u003cbr\u003eDelaney’s work is not without hope, but it is unflinching. He details how “football has become a tool for the world’s elites,” ultimately exposing the erosion of the game’s moral fabric. “The moral compass that the game needs,” writes Andy Brassell, while Oliver Bullough notes, “In this excellent investigation, Delaney reveals the ugly side of the beautiful game.” This is a book that seeks accountability and, as Jack Pitt-Brooke puts it, may well be “the most important football book of its generation.” \u003cbr\u003eStates of Play has already made its mark, being shortlisted for Football Book of the Year and Best Sports Writing Award at the 2025 Sports Book Awards and named a book of the year by The Times, The Telegraph, The Irish Times, and The Irish Independent. Laurie Whitwell praises its “fearlessness and forensic scrutiny,” describing it as “an important investigation for our times.” Jonathan Wilson calls it “a majestic book. The essential guide to how the people’s game has become the plaything of the wealthy and powerful.” \u003cbr\u003eUltimately, Delaney’s reporting is a call to action for fans, journalists, and officials alike to reclaim the spirit of the sport. His States of Play is authoritative, riveting, and eye-opening, a chronicle of how football’s highest echelons have been overtaken by forces far removed from the grassroots. As the world’s most beloved game faces its greatest existential threat, Delaney offers the clarity and courage that football so desperately needs.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 0, 0);\"\u003ePublisher: Visit \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.orionbooks.co.uk\/imprint\/orion\/seven-dials\/page\/about-orion\/seven-dials\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e Seven Dials\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 0, 0);\"\u003ePublication: August 7, 2025\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 0, 0);\"\u003ePrice: £12.99\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 0, 0);\"\u003eISBN-10: 139961942X\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 0, 0);\"\u003eISBN 13: 978-1399619424\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 0, 0);\"\u003ePaperback: 528 pages\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED AUGUST 2025","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55203189031292,"sku":null,"price":12.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/States-of-Play.png?v=1746736051"},{"product_id":"portraits-of-passion-150-years-of-hibernian-fc-fans","title":"Portraits of Passion: 150 Years of Hibernian FC Fans","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: x-large; color: rgb(16, 111, 1);\"\u003ePaperback, 400 pages \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"font-size: xx-large;\"\u003eGreen-Blooded \u0026amp; Proud\u003cbr\u003eThe Hibs Army Story\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003e\n\u003cspan style=\"font-size: medium;\"\u003e There’s something different about Hibernian fans. You see it in the way they pack Easter Road on freezing January nights, scarves pulled tight, voices louder than the cold. These are people who’ve handed down their love of Hibs like a family heirloom. For them, being a fan is about belonging, memory, and carrying a piece of Leith in your heart wherever you go. They remember the legends and the heartbreaks, and they turn up every week because hope, somehow, always survives. \u003cbr\u003eWhat sets Hibs fans apart isn’t just their loyalty but the way they wear it. They’re storytellers and singers, banner-makers and dreamers, fiercely proud of their club’s roots and just as quick to laugh at themselves as to rage at a referee. They’ve seen miracles and misery, and they’ve embraced both with a stubborn kind of joy. Portraits of Passion is a tribute to these supporters — the faces in the crowd, the voices in the pub, and the silent souls who have lived their whole lives in green and white. Their stories serve as the vital core of Hibernian Football Club. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Publisher: \u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003eGreat Book Selection – Visit \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/luath.co.uk\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eLuath Press Ltd\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e \u003cbr\u003ePublished: August 8, 2025\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePrice: £15.00\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePaperback: 400 pages\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eISBN-10: \u003cspan\u003e1804252409\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eISBN-13: \u003cspan\u003e978-1804252406\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions: 171 x 241 (mm)\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED AUGUST 2025","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55205100814716,"sku":null,"price":15.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/HIBS.png?v=1746773990"},{"product_id":"leading-from-the-back-my-journey-to-the-top-of-womens-football-paperback","title":"Leading From The Back: My journey to the top of women's football (PAPERBACK)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLeading From The Back: \u003cbr\u003eMy journey to the top of women's football\u003cbr\u003eby Steph Houghton\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003eThis is the inspiring memoir of one of football's greatest players, Steph Houghton, in which she recounts the highs and lows of making it to the top of her game as England captain, star of the London Olympics, and Manchester City stalwart, via Sunderland, Leeds, and Arsenal. With 121 caps for the Lionesses, Steph has been at the heart of the women's football revolution, inspiring girls and young women around the world, but in her own understated way. In Leading from the Back, Steph candidly describes what it takes to reach the top of women's football when the odds are against you.Inside, she shares her dreams of becoming professional as a young girl in Sunderland and how reaching that status has been a long and often difficult journey, with many personal struggles both on and off the pitch. In between, she recounts the amazing highs of playing for her country, making history at the Olympics, lifting cups for her team, and the awe-inspiring people she has encountered along the way.This is not only Steph's personal story but also the story of women's football in England and internationally. Steph is one of the greatest influences in elevating the women's game to new heights.A remarkable journey of unwavering determination that reveals the grit needed to stay true to yourself and what it really takes to be a leader—this is the full and incredible story of a sports pioneer, 'Super Steph'. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eABOUT THE AUTHOR\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSteph Houghton, MBE, was a pioneer of the women's game and contributed significantly to its growth. Steph has previously captained both the women's England team, the Lionesses, and Manchester City. She has won 121 caps for her country and twice represented Great Britain. She created history for Team GB in the London 2012 Olympics by scoring the country's first goal in women's football, and she later competed in the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. After joining Sunderland, she has also played for Leeds United and Arsenal. In 2024, Steph left Manchester City after a decade, and the Football Museum soon recognised her in its Hall of Fame. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePublisher: Sphere\u003cbr\u003ePublished: May 1, 2025\u003cbr\u003ePrice: £12.99\u003cbr\u003ePaperback: 320 pages Dimensions: 156 x 240 mm \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED MAY 2025","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55227261878652,"sku":null,"price":12.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/Leading-From-The-Back_ac7851b0-5f97-47d4-ad94-f176438796aa.png?v=1739351267"},{"product_id":"waking-the-giant-inside-the-rebirth-of-aston-villa-paperback-10-99","title":"Waking the Giant: Inside the Rebirth of Aston Villa PAPERBACK £10.99","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWaking the Giant \u003cbr\u003eInside the Rebirth of Aston Villa \u003cbr\u003eby Gregg Evans and Matt Maher\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003eVeteran journalists Gregg Evans and Matt Maher masterfully chronicle Aston Villa's remarkable journey from near-financial ruin to European glory in what promises to be one of the most compelling football narratives of 2025. The timing of this book couldn't be more perfect, coming after Villa's historic qualification for the Champions League and remarkable transformation under Unai Emery. \u003cbr\u003eThe authors meticulously detail Aston Villa's journey from the club's financial collapse in July 2018, one of English football's most storied moments, to their triumphant return to Europe's elite. The narrative particularly excels in its behind-the-scenes account of the last-minute rescue by billionaire duo Nassef Sawiris and Wes Edens, who brought significant investment and ambition into the club. \u003cbr\u003eWhat sets this book apart is its unprecedented access to key figures in Villa's transformation. The authors paint a complete picture of the club's revival through exclusive interviews with stars like Jack Grealish and John McGinn, as well as candid conversations with former manager Dean Smith and key behind-the-scenes operators like Damian Vidagany. The inclusion of dozens of off-the-record conversations adds layers of depth and authenticity to the narrative. \u003cbr\u003eEvans and Maher bring both journalistic rigour and emotional resonance to the story, drawing on their combined decades of experience covering football in the West Midlands. Their intimate knowledge of the club shines through in the detailed accounts of Villa's record-breaking home-winning streak and the tactical revolution under Unai Emery. \u003cbr\u003eThe book excels in revealing the human stories behind the headlines—from the nail-biting tension of the The book excels in revealing the human stories that lie behind the headlines, ranging from the intense tension of the Championship play-off final defeat to the exhilaration of Premier League promotion and the remarkable journey to European qualification. This narrative aims to create a compelling account of institutional transformation. \u003cbr\u003eMore than just a sports book, \"Waking the Giant\" serves as a case study in institutional revival, a testament to visionary leadership, and a tribute to one of English football's finest clubs. For Villa fans, it will be required reading, but its appeal extends to anyone interested in fine management, leadership, or the business of football.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Publisher: Great Book Selection – Visit \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.harpernorth.co.uk\/\"\u003e HarperNorth\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePublished: August 13, 2026\u003cbr\u003ePrice: £10.99 \u003cbr\u003ePaperback: 288 pages\u003cbr\u003eISBN-13: 9780008741044\u003cbr\u003eDimensions: 198 x 129 mm\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED AUGUST 2026","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55233825669500,"sku":null,"price":10.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/WAKING-THE-GIANT5.png?v=1734341094"},{"product_id":"verona-campione-the-miracle-of-85","title":"Verona Campione: The Miracle of 85","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: x-large; color: rgb(16, 111, 1);\"\u003e Hardcover 256 pages\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"font-size: xx-large;\"\u003eMiracle in Verona\u003cbr\u003eUnderdogs Take the Crown!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003e\n\u003cspan style=\"font-size: medium;\"\u003eVerona Campione: The Miracle of 85 by Richard Hough is a masterclass in football storytelling, shining a well-deserved spotlight on one of the sport’s most unlikely triumphs. Hough’s deep affection for Verona and his encyclopaedic knowledge of Italian football come through on every page, giving the reader an authentic and immersive experience. Hough's masterful weaving of the city's history, the vibrant culture of 1980s Italy, and the electric atmosphere of Serie A football is truly remarkable.\u003cbr\u003eRather than focusing solely on the giants—Platini, Maradona, and Rummenigge—Hough’s narrative champions the so-called “provincials,” showing just how Osvaldo Bagnoli, with his quiet brilliance, managed to assemble a squad that would topple the established order. Hough beautifully renders the profiles of players like Hans-Peter Briegel and Preben Elkjær Larsen, and his exclusive interviews with players, journalists, and fans lend the book an unrivalled sense of authenticity. \u003cbr\u003eWhat really sets this book apart is the way Hough captures the spirit of the city and its people, making the story resonate well beyond the pitch. He brings to life the sights, sounds, and tensions of 1980s Italy, turning what could have been a straightforward sporting chronicle into a rich cultural tapestry. Hough’s writing is both accessible and insightful, making complex tactics and footballing politics easy to grasp, even for those less familiar with the Italian game. \u003cbr\u003eWith meticulous research and a genuine passion for his subject, Richard Hough has crafted a book that is as much about community and resilience as it is about football. Verona Campione: The Miracle of 85 is a must-read for anyone who loves the game, admires an underdog, or simply wants to understand why football matters so much in cities like Verona. Hough has delivered a true classic—one that will be treasured by fans for years to come. \u003c\/span\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePublished: May 19, 2025\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePrice: £19.99\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePaperback: 256 pages\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eISBN-10: \u003cspan\u003e1836801211\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eISBN-13: \u003cspan\u003e978-1836801214\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions: 222 x 144 (mm)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED MAY 2025","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55240189575548,"sku":null,"price":19.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/Verona-Campione.png?v=1747070945"},{"product_id":"before-you-go-john-aizlewood","title":"Before You Go: Lower League Life and Love at the Lamex","description":"\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: x-large; color: rgb(0, 128, 0);\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: xx-large; color: rgb(218, 32, 42);\"\u003eFootball, Family, Forever\u003cbr\u003eThe Stevenage Season\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003eLower-league football is a strange kind of love. The sort that sneaks up on you, seeps into your bones, and before you know it, you’re standing in the biting wind at the Lamex, scarf pulled tight, shouting encouragements you never thought would pass your lips. That’s where John Aizlewood finds himself, alongside his fourteen-year-old son Oscar, as they embark on a season-long pilgrimage with Stevenage FC. Every match, whether at home or away, in the league or cup, transforms into more than just ninety minutes; it serves as a reflection of a relationship, a depiction of a nation, and a tribute to the unique characteristics of the beautiful game, stripped of its Premier League glitz.\u003cbr\u003eTheir journey takes them from the raucous stands of Rotherham to the faded seaside charm of Blackpool, each town revealing something new about itself and, in turn, about father and son. Sometimes they bicker about tactics or the merits of a questionable half-time pie; sometimes they simply fall silent, watching the rain pelt down as Boro battle it out against teams with ten times their budget. They marvel at Stonehenge, stand on the grave of a queen, and lose their voices cheering on a last-minute winner at home. In the process, England – and a little corner of Wales when Wrexham comes calling – unfolds before them, one away fixture at a time. \u003cbr\u003eBut the essence of Before You Go lies not only in the football, but also in the relentless pace of family life. As Oscar edges towards adulthood and GCSEs, and John confronts the gentle encroachment of age, each game feels weighted with meaning. The fixture list dictates their travels, but the real journey is internal: the rituals, the banter, the long drives home in the dark, when the match is over and all that’s left is each other. Through victories, defeats, and the mundane magic of the lower leagues, they find a connection that only football – in all its muddy, pie-fuelled glory – can truly provide. This is a love letter to a club, a son, and the precious, fleeting time before life moves on. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePublished: September 29, 2025\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePrice: £14.99\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePaperback: 320 pages\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eISBN-10: \u003cspan\u003e1836800223\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eISBN-13: \u003cspan\u003e978-1836800224\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions: \u003cspan\u003e12.9 x 1.93 x 19.81 cm\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED SEPTEMBER 2025","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55256555291004,"sku":"35mail","price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/Before-You-Go.png?v=1747423013"},{"product_id":"sunderland-afc-the-definitive-history-pb","title":"Sunderland AFC: The Definitive History (Paperback)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: x-large; color: rgb(0, 128, 0);\"\u003e Paperback Published June 2025, 320 pages\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"font-size: xx-large;\"\u003eHoway, the Lads!\u003cbr\u003eSunderland’s Story Proper Told\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003e\n\u003cspan style=\"font-size: medium;\"\u003e Few clubs in English football can claim a legacy as rich or as fiercely defended as Sunderland AFC, and no one tells that story better than Rob Mason. In \"Sunderland AFC: The Definitive History,\" Mason delivers a sweeping chronicle that's as much about the unbreakable spirit of Wearside as it is about the beautiful game itself. From the club’s humble origins—founded by a group of schoolmasters in 1879—to its place among the giants of English football, Mason’s writing bursts with clarity and heart. \u003cbr\u003eMason guides readers through every era, creating vivid portraits of legendary managers, iconic players, and the fans who have consistently supported the Black Cats. Sunderland’s six top-flight titles and two FA Cup victories aren’t just statistics here; they’re lived experiences, rendered with the kind of detail only a true club historian could muster. Mason's mastery of storytelling is particularly evident in his account of the poignant 1973 FA Cup victory, a moment when Sunderland triumphed against all challenges and brought the city together in joy.\u003cbr\u003eYet Mason doesn’t shy away from the darker chapters. He addresses the pain of relegation, the heartbreak of near misses, and the resilience required to rise again. The recent years—marked by back-to-back relegations from the Premier League and a hard slog in the third tier—are explored with empathy and insight. Rather than wallow in despair, Mason highlights the unwavering loyalty of Sunderland’s supporters, whose record-breaking attendances at the Stadium of Light have set the standard for English football. \u003cbr\u003eWhat truly sets this book apart, though, is Mason’s voice. There’s a warmth and authority in his prose that makes you feel like you’re sitting with a lifelong fan at the pub, swapping stories over a pint. His interviews with players, managers, and staff add a personal touch, weaving together anecdotes and reflections that bring Sunderland’s history to life. For anyone interested in football—or in the enduring power of community—Rob Mason’s \"Sunderland AFC: The Definitive History\" is a masterclass in sports writing. The book honours the past, comprehends the present, and dares to hope for the future, all under the steady guidance of an author who is intimately familiar with the club.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePublisher: \u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 0, 0);\"\u003eGreat Book Selection – Visit \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.iconbooks.com\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eIcon Books\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e \u003cbr\u003ePublished: July 18, 2024\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePrice: £10.99\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePaperback: 320 pages\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eISBN-10: \u003cspan\u003e1837731985\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eISBN-13: \u003cspan\u003e978-1837731985\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions: 198 x 129 (mm)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED JULY 2024","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55261178855804,"sku":null,"price":10.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/Sunderland-AFC-_Hardback.png?v=1747641861"},{"product_id":"shankly-from-glenbuck-to-wembley","title":"Shankly: From Glenbuck To Wembley","description":"\u003c!----\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: x-large; color: rgb(0, 128, 0);\"\u003e Paperback Published June 2024, 192 pages\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003ePhil Thompson has always had a knack for capturing the pulse of Merseyside, but “Shankly: From Glenbuck to Wembley” shows him at the top of his game. Thompson, joined by renowned sports photographer Steve Hale, doesn’t just chronicle the milestones of Bill Shankly’s career—he brings the man to life, painting him in vivid detail with the kind of writing that makes you feel like you’re right there on the Anfield touchline. The book opens in the tiny mining village of Glenbuck, where Shankly’s early years are laid out with a keen sense of place and purpose. Thompson’s prose is sharp and direct, but never cold; he manages to capture Shankly’s restless energy and uncompromising values with real warmth. \u003cbr\u003eAs Thompson charts Shankly’s rise through the ranks—from his early managerial stints at Carlisle and Grimsby to his transformative spell at Liverpool—you get a clear sense of why Shankly was such a magnetic figure. Thompson’s writing is at its best when dissecting Shankly’s philosophy: football as a means of uniting the working class, as a force for hope and belonging. There’s an authenticity here—a sense that Thompson understands both the grandeur and the grit of Shankly’s journey. \u003cbr\u003eShankly's arrival at Liverpool in 1959, a club struggling and in need of a miracle, forms the core of the book. Thompson masterfully weaves together anecdotes, interviews, and his reflections to show just how seismic Shankly’s impact was. You can practically hear the Kop roar as Shankly’s Reds begin to climb, first to domestic success and then to European nights that would define generations. \u003cbr\u003eThompson's ability to balance the facts with a captivating storytelling style distinguishes this biography. He pays tribute not just to Shankly’s footballing genius but to his wit, his restless drive, and the love he inspired in Liverpool fans. And with Steve Hale’s evocative photography sprinkled throughout, each chapter feels even more alive. “Shankly: From Glenbuck To Wembley” isn’t just a biography—it’s a love letter to a man and a club, written by someone who knows just how deep that love runs. Thompson’s writing is honest, unpretentious, and deeply human, making this a must-read for any football fan. \u003cbr\u003e\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: large;\"\u003e What Did Bill Shankly Do in His Last 10 Years? (September 1971–1981): \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\n\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 126, 0);\"\u003eAfter leading Liverpool to another league title in 1972–73 and securing the club’s first European trophy with the UEFA Cup, Shankly stunned fans and players alike by announcing his resignation in July 1974, shortly after lifting the FA Cup. The decade that followed saw Shankly step away from frontline management, but he never truly left the football world. He remained a beloved figure at Anfield, regularly attending matches and training sessions and maintaining close relationships with fans and players. Shankly also dedicated time to public speaking, sharing his philosophies on football and life at events across the country. Although he sometimes felt sidelined by the club’s decision-makers, his influence on the culture and identity of Liverpool remained immense. Bill Shankly passed away in September 1981, but his legacy lived on in every song sung at the Kop and every trophy lifted by the club he transformed.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePublisher: \u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 0, 0);\"\u003eGreat Book Selection – Visit \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/thehistorypress.co.uk\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eThe History Press\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e \u003cbr\u003ePublished: June 27, 2025\u003cbr\u003ePrice: £12.99\u003cbr\u003ePaperback: 192 pages\u003cbr\u003eISBN-10: 1803997435\u003cbr\u003eISBN-13: 978-1803997438\u003cbr\u003eDimensions: 129 x 198 (mm) \u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED JUNE 2024","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55345290281340,"sku":null,"price":12.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/Shankly-From-Glenbuck-To-Wembley.png?v=1747902471"},{"product_id":"red-star-paris-more-than-just-a-football-club","title":"Red Star Paris, More Than Just a Football Club","description":"\u003c!----\u003e\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: x-large; color: rgb(0, 128, 0);\"\u003e Softcover Published October 2025 272 pages\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"font-size: xx-large;\"\u003eWhere Football Meets Revolution \u003cbr\u003e Red Star Paris Exposed\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003e\n\u003cspan style=\"font-size: medium;\"\u003e Red Star Paris, More Than Just a Football Club: Punks, Politics and Power Struggles in the Fight for the Coolest Club on Earth, penned by the incisive journalist Simon Binns, is a testament to both his investigative prowess and his deep affection for the game. Binns, whose journalistic career and football industry experience imbue every page with authenticity, immerses himself in the club’s world, unearthing stories that many have overlooked. His perspective is shaped not only by professional curiosity but by a personal journey—one that began with a search for his Parisian roots and led him to the raucous stands of Red Star. Through meticulous reporting and heartfelt narrative, Binns shines a light on a football club whose identity is built on resistance, community, and an unwavering sense of belonging.\n\u003cbr\u003e\nBinns gives due credit to the fans, whose passion and loyalty pulse through the veins of Red Star Paris. He chronicles their defiant stand against the encroachment of modern football ideals, especially after the club’s controversial acquisition by a US investment firm. The ultras, supporters with a reputation for fierce independence, become central players in this ongoing saga. Binns’s interviews with fans, journalists, business owners, and politicians animate the story, offering a rich and varied portrait of a club that refuses to bow to commercial pressures. The book deftly captures how the terraces of Stade Bauer become a battleground for the soul of football, a space where tradition and resistance are not just symbols, but living, breathing realities.\n\u003cbr\u003e\nSimon Binns does not shy away from the turbulence that defines recent years at Red Star. With the club teetering between non-league obscurity and a longed-for renaissance, he details the courtroom dramas and boardroom machinations that threaten to sever the club’s connection to its roots. Yet, at every turn, Binns foregrounds the voices of those who matter most—the community that has always seen Red Star as more than just a football team. Through their eyes, he explores what it means to fight for authenticity in a world increasingly dominated by profit and spectacle.\n\u003cbr\u003e\nThe brilliance of Binns’s work lies in his ability to situate Red Star’s story within the larger context of French football and society. By weaving together exclusive interviews, historical narrative, and sharp social commentary, he elevates the club’s journey into a meditation on the very nature of belonging and resistance. Red Star Paris, More Than Just a Football Club is not just a chronicle of a club’s struggle; it is a tribute to the idea that football, at its best, is a force for community, identity, and hope. Simon Binns deserves immense credit for giving Red Star Paris—and all those who love it—the nuanced, passionate, and deeply human chronicle they deserve. \u003c\/span\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 0, 0);\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(43, 0, 255);\"\u003eDelivered to You 3rd Week, October 2025 \u003cbr\u003eSome publishers release new titles early, so our ETA above could change.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePublished: October 13, 2025\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePrice: £19.99\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePaperback: 272 pages\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eISBN-10: \u003cspan\u003e1836801971\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eISBN-13: \u003cspan\u003e978-1836801979\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions: 216 x 138 (mm)\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 128, 0);\"\u003eWhy Pre-order?\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 128, 0);\"\u003eSince 2022, we've observed that publishers often opt for smaller print runs to manage costs effectively. This process has occasionally resulted in stock shortages. We strongly recommend pre-ordering to secure your copy and avoid disappointment.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED OCTOBER 2025","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55385697714556,"sku":null,"price":16.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/RED-STAR-PARIS.png?v=1748592487"},{"product_id":"coaching-through-superiorities-tactical-problem-solving-in-football","title":"Coaching Through Superiorities: Tactical Problem-Solving in Football","description":"\u003c!----\u003e\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: x-large; color: rgb(0, 128, 0);\"\u003e Softcover Published June 2025, 152 pages\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"font-size: xx-large;\"\u003eUnlock Football’s Hidden Tactical Edges\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003e\n\u003cspan style=\"font-size: medium;\"\u003eIn Coaching Through Superiorities: Tactical Problem-Solving in Football, Ray Power cements his reputation as one of football’s foremost coach educators by challenging the conventional wisdom that dominates tactical discussions. Power doesn’t just offer another playbook or formation manual; instead, he presents a new lens for understanding the game, rooted in the nuanced realities of the pitch. His five-pillar framework—numerical, Qualitative, Positional, Cooperative, and Dynamic Superiority—invites coaches at every level to move beyond dogma and see football as an ever-evolving puzzle, solved not by rigid adherence to systems but by creative, contextual thinking. \u003cbr\u003ePower’s writing is both accessible and thought-provoking, drawing from his profound experience and referencing tactical innovators like Pep Guardiola and Fernando Diniz. He guides readers through methods to identify and exploit superiorities across the field, encouraging coaches to adapt their tactics to the strengths of their players rather than forcing athletes into ill-fitting moulds. Power's dedication to empowering coaches as problem-solvers, teaching them to thrive in moments of chaos, transition, and unpredictability, rather than fearing them, is particularly noteworthy.\u003cbr\u003eThroughout the book, Power intertwines practical “lightbulb” tasks and scenario-based reflections, ensuring that readers are not passive consumers but active participants in their development. He skilfully blends sophisticated concepts—such as La Pausa, positional play, and Relationism—into actionable insights, making high-level theory both digestible and applicable for coaches at any stage. The respect and careful credit Power gives to the tactical pioneers who have shaped the modern game only adds to the book’s credibility and relevance. \u003cbr\u003eUltimately, Coaching Through Superiorities is a testament to Ray Power’s belief that the best coaches are not those with all the answers but those who ask the right questions. He hands readers a toolkit for seeing football differently, equipping them with the mindset and methods to create lasting impact on the training ground and matchday alike. For anyone serious about coaching, this book is more than a resource—it’s an invitation to rethink what tactical mastery truly means. \u003c\/span\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePublisher: \u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 0, 0);\"\u003eGreat Book Selection – Visit \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/hawksmoorpublishing.com\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eHawksmoor Publishing\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e \u003cbr\u003ePublished: June 16, 2025\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePrice: £18.99\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePaperback: 156 pages\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eISBN-10: \u003cspan\u003e1914066650\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eISBN-13:  978-1914066658\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions: 188 x 246 (mm)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED JUNE 2025","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55395808903548,"sku":"45MAIL","price":18.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/Coaching-Through-Superiorities.png?v=1748940393"},{"product_id":"2026-fifa-world-cup-guides-the-perfect-pair-every-match-with-the-adult-and-kids-official-guides","title":"2026 FIFA World Cup Guides The Perfect Pair Every Match with the Adult and Kids’ Official Guides","description":"\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"font-size: xx-Large;\"\u003e \u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(218, 32, 42);\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(50, 98, 149);\"\u003eExperience the World Cup Together\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(50, 98, 149);\"\u003eThe Essential Guides for Adults and Kids\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(50, 98, 149);\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003eThe 2026 FIFA World Cup will be a once-in-a-generation spectacle—a sprawling, history-making tournament across three nations, expanded teams, and an entirely new level of global excitement. To make every moment count, there’s no substitute for having not just one but both official guides at your fingertips. Keir Radnedge’s **FIFA World Cup 26: The Official Guide** delivers expert, behind-the-scenes analysis and rich historical context, perfectly complemented by Alex Rice’s interactive and imagination-firing **Kids’ Handbook**. With these two guides, your whole family will have everything they need to savor, understand, and get involved in every single kick and celebration. \u003cbr\u003eRadnedge brings trusted authority, deep-dive team profiles, and player spotlights to seasoned fans—while Rice’s kids’ guide transforms the tournament into an adventure of games, puzzles, and hands-on football fun. Put together, these books turn every match into an opportunity: adults can enjoy Radnedge’s insightful strategy breakdowns and fill-in results tracker, while younger fans chart their own World Cup journey with quizzes, progress charts, and creative activities. This is more than just watching football; it’s becoming part of the action, side-by-side with your family. \u003cbr\u003eFor parents, there’s nothing like sharing the excitement of the World Cup with your kids. With Radnedge’s comprehensive guide, you’ll have all the facts and figures you need to fuel spirited debates and cheer on players. And with Rice’s handbook at hand, your child’s questions turn into teachable moments—and their engagement goes beyond the screen, into hands-on learning and memory-making. Both guides together foster a deeper love for the game, uniting experienced fans and new supporters with fresh energy. \u003cbr\u003eDon’t settle for just following the World Cup—live it, learn it, and remember it together. This pair of official guides is the only complete toolkit for 2026: a masterclass for adult fans, and a playground for kids discovering the magic of world football. Make this World Cup unforgettable for your entire family—grab both guides and bring the world’s biggest sporting event to life on every page.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(218, 32, 42);\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48 \u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(43, 0, 255);\"\u003ePOSTAGE FREE (within UK)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePublished: May 25, 2026\u003cbr\u003ePrice: £24.99 \u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(218, 32, 42);\"\u003efor The Pair\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eTariff Codes: 49019900\u003cbr\u003eLavishly illustrated\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED MAY 2026","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55494760235388,"sku":null,"price":24.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/2026-FIFA-World-Cup-Official-Guides-Order-Now.png?v=1763211782"},{"product_id":"sunset-on-hibs-the-plot-to-destroy-hibernian","title":"Sunset on Hibs: The Plot to Destroy Hibernian","description":"\u003c!----\u003e\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: x-large; color: rgb(0, 128, 0);\"\u003e Paperback Published October 2025, 240 pages\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 128, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"font-size: xx-large;\"\u003eFans Save the Day \u003cbr\u003eHow Hibs Survived a Hostile Merger\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003eThe summer of 1990 cast a long shadow over Hibernian Football Club, as events unfolded that would become a defining chapter in Scottish football history. At the heart of the storm was David Duff, then Chairman of Hibs, who found himself grappling with a hostile bid led by Wallace Mercer, the controversial Chairman of Hearts. Mercer's audacious plan to merge the two Edinburgh clubs under the banner of 'Edinburgh United' was little more than a thinly veiled attempt to eliminate Hibs and secure dominance for Hearts. As rumours circulated and battle lines were drawn, the mood among Hibs supporters swung from disbelief to mounting fury, knowing full well that their beloved club’s very existence was under siege. \u003cbr\u003eBehind the scenes, the machinations were both ruthless and complex. Duff, confronted with increasing pressure from internal shareholders eager to sell, refused to surrender. He understood that the proposed merger would ultimately lead to Hibs' downfall. The boardroom became a battleground, with former allies turning on one another, and shadowy figures from the world of Scottish business slipping in and out of meetings. Among them was the influential Tom Farmer, whose role would prove pivotal as the drama unfolded. Public protests erupted, and the fans—the lifeblood of the club—rallied behind Duff, fighting to preserve their heritage. \u003cbr\u003eBeyond mere boardroom intrigue, the period was characterised by unforgettable moments both on and off the pitch. The book vividly recounts the tales of Hibs legends like John Collins and Andy Goram, whose heroics provided hope during a period of uncertainty. Tales of tense European nights behind the Iron Curtain and tense matches where the outcome seemed to mirror the club's perilous situation abound. Duff’s ambition was always to see Hibs at the summit of Scottish football, but the events of 1990 would not only thwart those dreams—they would upend his life, leaving scars that endured long after the dust settled. \u003cbr\u003eAbove all, \"Sunset on Hibs\" is a stark warning about the perils of greed and short-term thinking in sport. Duff's perspective reveals the potential threat to a football club's soul when financial interests take precedence over tradition and loyalty. The story is a tribute to the resilience of Hibs and their supporters and a reminder that football is about far more than money—it is about identity, belonging, and the fierce loyalty of a community unwilling to let its club die. \u003cem\u003eWallace Mercer, the former chairman of Heart of Midlothian (Hearts), passed away in 2006. \u003c\/em\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePublisher: \u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 0, 0);\"\u003eGreat Book Selection – Visit \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/birlinn.co.uk\/arena-sport\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eArena Sport\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e \u003cbr\u003ePublished: October 2, 2025\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePrice: £14.99\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePaperback: 240 pages\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eISBN-10: \u003cspan\u003e1913759016\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eISBN-13: \u003cspan\u003e978-1913759018\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions: 156 x 234 (mm)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED OCTOBER 2025","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55531031921020,"sku":null,"price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/SUNSET-ON-HIBS.png?v=1752142339"},{"product_id":"arsenal-on-the-edge-the-dramatic-story-of-the-2024-25-season","title":"Arsenal: On the Edge: The dramatic story of the 2024\/25 season","description":"\u003c!----\u003e\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: x-large; color: rgb(0, 128, 0);\"\u003e Softcover Published October 2025 320 Pages\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(173, 32, 42);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"font-size: xx-large;\"\u003eArsenal’s Season on a Knife-Edge\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003e\n\u003cspan style=\"font-size: medium;\"\u003eFew seasons in Arsenal’s storied history have crackled with as much tension, promise, and raw emotion as the 2024\/25 campaign. Under the calm yet uncompromising stewardship of Mikel Arteta, the Gunners navigated a precarious path between glory and despair. Hopes had soared after the close-run finish of 2023\/24, and supporters dared to believe—this time, perhaps, the league title would return to north London. Yet, football’s cruel twists would see Arsenal fall just short, their ambitions checked but not broken, as they finished tantalisingly close to the summit. \u003cbr\u003eThis season stood out due to Arsenal's ability to excel in crucial situations. The demolition of Manchester City at the Emirates was a night that lived long in the memory, a statement of intent that reverberated across the Premier League. Arsenal's record-breaking victory over PSV Eindhoven in the Champions League group stage demonstrated their growing European maturity. Despite facing setbacks, the squad's unity, exemplified by leaders like Martin Odegaard and Bukayo Saka, provided optimism for the future.\u003cbr\u003eAlex Fynn and Kevin Whitcher, whose combined decades of proximity to Arsenal grant them rare insight, chart the club’s journey through a season of dizzying highs and gutting lows. Their access and experience infuse every page with authenticity, from boardroom intrigue to the febrile atmosphere in the stands. The narrative consistently confronts the uncomfortable realities of injuries, tactical risks, and the constant scrutiny that characterise life at a club as ambitious as Arsenal's.\u003cbr\u003eUltimately, we should remember 2024\/25 as a season where Arsenal was on the verge of achieving something truly exceptional. The club's evolving identity incorporates the lessons learnt from both triumph and adversity. With a blend of youth and experience, and a fanbase as passionate as any in Europe, Arsenal is poised to turn promise into silverware in the upcoming seasons. \u003c\/span\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 128, 0);\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis title will be delivered a few days after the publication date.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePublisher: \u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 0, 0);\"\u003eGreat Book Selection – Visit \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.bitebackpublishing.com\/%0A\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eBiteback Publishing\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e \u003cbr\u003ePublished: October 21, 2025\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePrice: £14.99\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePaperback: 320 pages\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eISBN-10: \u003cspan\u003e1785909967\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eISBN-13: \u003cspan\u003e978-1785909962\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED OCTOBER 2025","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55533349372284,"sku":null,"price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/Arsenal-On-the-Edge.png?v=1752217519"},{"product_id":"theres-gonna-be-a-show-everton-and-me-a-complicated-love-story","title":"There's Gonna Be A Show: Everton and me - a complicated love story","description":"\u003c!----\u003e\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: x-large; color: rgb(0, 128, 0);\"\u003e Paperback Published October 2025, 192 Pages\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"font-size: xx-large;\"\u003eBlue Blood, Proper Mad \u003cbr\u003eJimmy’s Everton Tale\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003e\n\u003cspan style=\"font-size: medium;\"\u003eThere’s a peculiar ache that comes from loving Everton, a club whose glory days shimmer on the periphery of memory and whose struggles are all too present. I grew up in the shadow of Goodison Park, the blue brick walls and floodlights a constant on the Liverpool skyline. For a boy from a comprehensive, football was more than a game; it was a pulse, a language, a way in. Everton became my family’s backdrop, the highs and lows of the club echoing the turmoil within our own home. My father’s untimely death by his own hand, and my own later battles with addiction, all seemed somehow twined up in blue scarves and the roar of the Gwladys Street. \u003cbr\u003eWhen I left Liverpool for Cambridge, it felt like a betrayal—of city, of tribe, of self. Yet Everton, with all their stubborn grit and flashes of brilliance, remained stitched into me. I spent years away, numbed by drugs and ambition, trying to rewrite my story somewhere else. But the club, like the city, kept calling me back. Getting sober meant piecing myself together, and in that long, hard process, I found myself reconnecting not just with football, but with the things and people I’d tried to leave behind. Everton were still waiting—faithful, infuriating, impossible to abandon. \u003cbr\u003eThere was a strange symmetry in helping Bill Kenwright buy the club—a television man making a deal in the boardroom for the team that had shaped so much of my life. For all the politics and posturing, what it really meant was hope: for the fans, for the city, for myself. Being there for the last game at Goodison, with my company’s logo on the shirts, felt like coming full circle. The ground hummed with stories, with loss and laughter; every brick seemed to pulse with memory. \u003cbr\u003eNow, as Everton look to the future in the new Bramley-Moore Dock stadium, there’s a sense of something unfinished. This book isn’t just about football, or even about Everton. It’s about love—messy, complicated, sometimes painful, always real. It’s about what it means to belong, to lose and to come home again. And always, always, there’s gonna be a show. \u003c\/span\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(218, 32, 42);\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 128, 0);\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis title will be delivered a few days after the publication date.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePublisher: \u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(218, 32, 42);\"\u003eGreat Book Selection – Visit  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.floodlitdreams.com\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eFloodlit Dreams Ltd\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e \u003cbr\u003ePublished: October 21, 2025\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePrice: £10.99\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePaperback: 192 pages\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eISBN-10: \u003cspan\u003e1068295708\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eISBN-13: \u003cspan\u003e978-1068295706\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions: 129 x 198 (mm)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED OCTOBER 2025","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55537447305596,"sku":null,"price":10.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/There_s-Gonna-Be-A-Show.png?v=1752401298"},{"product_id":"girls-allowed","title":"Girls Allowed","description":"\u003c!----\u003e\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: x-large; color: rgb(0, 128, 0);\"\u003e \u003cstrong\u003ePaperback Published October 2025\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"font-size: xx-large;\"\u003eLionesses, Legends \u0026amp; Legacy \u003cbr\u003eThe Rise of Girls Allowed\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003eGirls Allowed is a vivid chronicle of the rise of women’s soccer, tracing the journey from the sport’s early days as a “theatre peculiarity” to today’s rapidly expanding global phenomenon. Nick Brown deftly explores the roots of women’s football in Britain, a story marked by exclusion, grit, and a relentless pursuit of legitimacy. The book shines a light on pivotal moments—such as the Lionesses’ electrifying triumph at the 2022 Euros—that changed the narrative, fueling the exponential growth of the women’s game worldwide. In 2025, the UEFA Women’s Euro is set to return with even greater anticipation, as record crowds and broadcast audiences testify to soccer’s ability to inspire new generations and rewrite sporting history. \u003cbr\u003eYet, for all its progress, Girls Allowed underscores the persistent inequalities that shape the women’s game, especially north of the English border. While England’s Super League grows in stature and investment, Scotland’s top division still boasts just three fully professional women’s teams, with many players juggling football and day jobs. Brown weaves in stories of resilience and passion, spotlighting trailblazers who challenged bans, fought prejudice, and championed the game’s core values—teamwork, skill, determination, and hope. The book’s compelling narrative and strategic use of soccer terminology—midfield battles, grassroots development, tactical evolution—invite both literature lovers and soccer fans to explore the intersection of culture, sport, and the ongoing push for equality. As the world turns its eyes to the Women’s Euro 2025 and the global surge in women’s football, Girls Allowed stands as a vital, SEO-optimized resource for anyone seeking insight into the legacy and future of the beautiful game. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(218, 32, 42);\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 128, 0);\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis title will be delivered a few days after the publication date.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePublisher: \u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(218, 32, 42);\"\u003eGreat Book Selection – Visit  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/halcyonpublishing.co.uk\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eHalcyon Publishing\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e \u003cbr\u003ePublished: October 23, 2025\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePrice: £10.99\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePaperback: 505g\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eISBN-10: \u003cspan\u003e1068439416\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eISBN-13: \u003cspan\u003e978-1068439414\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions: \u003cspan\u003e234 x 156\u003c\/span\u003e (mm)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED OCTOBER 2025","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55557200937340,"sku":null,"price":10.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/GIRLS-ALLOWED.png?v=1752857852"},{"product_id":"victor-chandler-put-your-life-on-it","title":"Victor Chandler: Put Your Life On It","description":"\u003c!----\u003e\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: x-large; color: rgb(0, 128, 0);\"\u003e \u003cstrong\u003ePaperback Published March 2023, 352 pages\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"font-size: xx-large;\"\u003e Victor Chandler \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: x-large;\"\u003e The Bookmaker Who Changed Racing Forever \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003eVictor Chandler: Put Your Life On It, masterfully written by award-winning author Jamie Reid, stands as the definitive account of horse racing’s most audacious bookmaker. This gripping biography captures the pulse of modern horse racing, weaving together the sport’s high-stakes culture with the evolution of betting from muddy paddocks to digital empires. Reid’s narrative doesn’t just chronicle the relentless drive and razor-sharp instincts of Chandler—often dubbed the “gentleman bookmaker”—it delivers an insider’s view of legendary races like Royal Ascot, the drama of the Cheltenham Festival, and the seismic shift as the industry moved offshore and online. Reid’s prose is rich with the language of the track—odds, handicaps, stewards’ inquiries, and the thrill of a photo finish—making it a must-read for anyone searching for the intersection of horse racing, gambling history, and literary excellence. \u003cbr\u003eBeyond the legacy of Chandler and his pioneering role in online betting, the book is timely in spotlighting the changing face of racing today. It pays tribute to the new generation of women jockeys and trainers making headlines in 2025, such as Hollie Doyle, who continues to break records, and Jessica Harrington, whose training acumen is revered worldwide. Reid’s reputation as a meticulous chronicler of the sport—previously showcased in his William Hill Sports Book of the Year-winning ‘Doped’—ensures that every name, from Alfie Solomons and Darby Sabini to Lucian Freud and the legendary punters of Hong Kong, is rendered with vivid authenticity. Whether you’re googling for the best horse racing books, the history of gambling, or the rise of female stars in the sport, this book delivers a powerful, SEO-optimized journey that captures the essence of both literature and the racing world. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(218, 32, 42);\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePublisher: Reach Sport\u003cbr\u003ePublished: March 9, 2023\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePrice: £9.99\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePaperback: 352 pages\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eISBN-10: \u003cspan\u003e1914197828\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eISBN-13: \u003cspan\u003e978-1914197826\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions: \u003cspan\u003e197 x 130 (mm)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED MARCH 2023","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55562121740668,"sku":null,"price":9.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/Victor-Chandler.png?v=1752998118"},{"product_id":"just-one-more-goal-the-autobiography-of-david-pleat","title":"Just One More Goal The autobiography of David Pleat","description":"\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 0, 136);\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: xx-large;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 128, 0);\"\u003eThe Paperback, 480 Pages\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe Untold Spurs Story \u003cbr\u003eDavid Pleat’s Inside Account\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003eDavid Pleat’s *Just One More Goal* is a candid, absorbing memoir from one of English football’s most enduring figures. From his early days as an England Schoolboy international to his pivotal roles at Luton Town and Tottenham Hotspur, Pleat’s story captures both the triumphs and heartbreaks that have shaped his life in the game. The unforgettable image of him dancing across the pitch after Luton’s dramatic survival in 1983 is just one highlight in a career spanning decades, clubs, and countless challenges. \u003cbr\u003ePleat doesn’t shy away from the game’s murkier realities, offering honest insights into his relationships with chairmen like Alan Sugar and Daniel Levy and opening the door on the pressures and politics behind the scenes. His recollections of working alongside and observing managers from Glenn Hoddle to José Mourinho reveal the evolution of football management and the personal costs of chasing glory. Each chapter is a window into a changing sport and the personalities who shaped it. \u003cbr\u003eBut more than a personal memoir, Pleat’s book chronicles the transformation of football itself—from the freewheeling, instinctive style of his youth to the calculated, technical approach that dominates today. *Just One More Goal* is both a love letter to the beautiful game and a thoughtful exploration of how football, like its most devoted servants, must adapt or be left behind. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(218, 32, 42);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48 \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePublisher: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.bitebackpublishing.com\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e Bite Back Publishing \u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePublished: September 23, 2025\u003cbr\u003ePrice: £11.99\u003cbr\u003eISBN-10: \u003cspan\u003e1785909916\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eISBN-13: \u003cspan\u003e978-1785909917\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHardcover: 480 pages\u003cbr\u003eDimensions: 198 x 129 mm \u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"SEPTEMBER 2025 THE PAPERBACK","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55576788500860,"sku":null,"price":11.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/Just-one-more-Goal.png?v=1726500482"},{"product_id":"the-golden-age-of-player-development","title":"The Golden Age of Soccer Player Development","description":"\u003c!----\u003e\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: x-large; color: rgb(218, 42, 32);\"\u003e  \u003cstrong\u003eNOW IN STOCK DELIVERED TO YOU WITHIN 2 DAYS\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: x-large; color: rgb(0, 128, 0);\"\u003e Paperback Published September 2025, 122 pages\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"font-size: xx-large;\"\u003eThe Ultimate Kids’\u003cbr\u003eFootball Coaching Guide!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003eThe Golden Age of Player Development: A Guide to Foundation Phase Coaching by Rob Porter is an essential resource for anyone serious about football coaching at the youth level. This groundbreaking book expertly blends the science of soccer skill acquisition with proven coaching strategies, offering a roadmap for developing young footballers during their most formative years. Porter emphasises the critical Foundation Phase (ages 5-11), where establishing a love for the game, technical mastery, and positive coach-player relationships set the groundwork for future success. The book tackles key concepts such as creating an optimal learning environment, implementing age-appropriate practices, and the importance of parental involvement—core themes that mirror the meticulous preparation and observation needed in both football and horse racing, where early development and foundational skills determine long-term outcomes. \u003cbr\u003eDrawing on decades of real-world experience, Porter shares detailed guidance on session planning, coaching methodology, and the FA’s core player moves, alongside actionable advice for match day preparation and ongoing coach development. Readers will find 20 tried-and-tested training practices, clear advice for working with kids at grassroots and academy levels, and insights into avoiding common coaching pitfalls. By weaving in principles of foundation phase coaching, teamwork, technical detail, and observation—while subtly referencing transferable concepts from fields like horse racing—The Golden Age of Player Development positions itself as a must-read for coaches looking to nurture confident, skilled, and passionate young players.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(218, 32, 42);\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePublisher: \u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(218, 32, 42);\"\u003eGreat Book Selection – Visit  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/hawksmoorpublishing.com\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eHawksmoor Publishing\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e \u003cbr\u003ePublished: September 1, 2025\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePrice: £12.99\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePaperback: 122 pages\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eISBN-10: \u003cspan\u003e191406674X\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eISBN-13: \u003cspan\u003e978-1914066740\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions: 152 x 229 (mm)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED SEPTEMBER 2025","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55593063350652,"sku":null,"price":12.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/The-Golden-Age-of-Player-Development.png?v=1753945037"},{"product_id":"big-deal-one-hundred-managers-their-greatest-signing-and-the-one-who-got-away","title":"Big Deal! : One Hundred Managers, their Greatest Signing and the One Who Got Away!","description":"\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"font-size: xx-large;\"\u003eSecrets of the Transfer Market Revealed \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Verdana;\"\u003eFrom the electrifying transfer of Kevin Keegan to Southampton at the peak of his fame, to Pat Jennings’ controversial switch between fierce North London rivals Tottenham and Arsenal, \"Big Deal!: The Most Momentous Transfers in British Football History\" dives deep into the world of football’s most unforgettable signings. This richly illustrated book, with exclusive insights from managers like Jurgen Klopp, Sven-Goran Eriksson, Claudio Ranieri, Gerard Houllier, Kevin Keegan, David Moyes, Sam Allardyce, and Martin O'Neill, brings fans inside the dramatic negotiations and near-mythical transfer sagas that shaped British football. Whether it’s how Wolves almost secured Michel Platini before Juventus or Burnley’s audacious bid for a young Harry Kane, each chapter unpacks the behind-the-scenes drama, legendary deals, and the \"ones that got away,\" making it a must-have for anyone passionate about soccer, football history, and the transfer market. \u003cbr\u003ePacked with exclusive interviews, rare photographs, and untold stories, \"Big Deal!\" is the definitive guide to the British football transfer market. This essential volume captures the pivotal moments and decisions that changed the fortunes of clubs and players alike, offering fans a unique look at the strategies, heartbreak, and triumphs behind the most historic transfers. With contributions from football icons and exclusive access to the sport’s biggest names, this book is perfect for anyone searching for in-depth soccer transfer stories, legendary football signings, and the ultimate collection of British football history. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(218, 32, 42);\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePublished: October 6, 2025\u003cbr\u003ePrice: £12.99\u003cbr\u003ePaperback: 320 pages\u003cbr\u003eISBN-13: 9781801507936\u003cbr\u003eDimensions: 198 x 129 (mm)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED OCTOBER 2025","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55665019027836,"sku":null,"price":12.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/BIG-DEAL.png?v=1755934543"},{"product_id":"the-smell-of-football-ii-the-next-eleven-years-and-ten-teams","title":"The Smell of Football II: The Next Eleven Years (and Ten Teams)","description":"\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"font-size: xx-large;\"\u003eThe Untold Story \u003cbr\u003eFootball’s Hidden Battles\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Verdana;\"\u003eIn \"The Smell of Football II: The Next Eleven Years (and Ten Teams)\", Mick 'Baz' Rathbone delivers a raw, honest look inside the world of professional football, blending personal struggle with the ever-changing landscape of the sport. From his emotional exit as Everton’s head of medical in 2010, Rathbone’s journey carries readers through legendary football clubs, international setups, and locker rooms filled with iconic names like David Moyes, Sir Alex Ferguson, Sir Bobby Charlton, and Ray Clemence. This football memoir is packed with behind-the-scenes stories, offering readers rare insight into the evolution of soccer, the pressures on sports professionals, and the shifting dynamics between experience and youth in football medicine and management. \u003cbr\u003eRathbone’s self-deprecating humour and searing self-reflection capture the fears and doubts that haunt many in the game—especially those wrestling with ageing, relevance, and self-worth. His story resonates with football fans searching for meaning beyond the pitch, as he faces the difficulties associated with staying vital in a world dominated by younger, more academically qualified protagonists. With candid anecdotes from Birmingham City to the biggest club in the world, \"The Smell of Football II\" stands as an essential read for anyone interested in football, sports memoirs, and the ongoing search for purpose in a fast-moving game.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(218, 32, 42);\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 0, 255);\"\u003eThis book will be delivered a few days after the publishing date.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePublished: September 29, 2025\u003cbr\u003ePrice: £14.99\u003cbr\u003ePaperback: 224 pages\u003cbr\u003eISBN-13: 9781836800422\u003cbr\u003eDimensions: 198 x 129 (mm)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED SEPTEMBER 2025","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55668075102588,"sku":null,"price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/THE-SMELL-OF-FOOTBALL.png?v=1756015401"},{"product_id":"hibs-at-150-down-the-slope-with-footballs-pioneers-down-the-slope-with-football-s-great-pioneers","title":"Hibs at 150: Down the Slope with Football's Pioneers: Down the Slope with Football’s Great Pioneers","description":"\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 128, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"font-size: xx-large;\"\u003eRelive the Swagger\u003cbr\u003eThe Heroes Who Made Hibs\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003eFor 150 years, Hibernian FC—affectionately known as Hibs—has been more than just a Scottish football club; it's a living tapestry of history, heritage, and passion that stretches from the heart of Edinburgh to the wider world of soccer. Born from the spirited determination of the Catholic Young Men’s Society at St Patrick’s Church, Hibs forged their legacy not in quiet debate or gentle song, but on the pitch, sparking generations of delirium, despair, and devotion among their supporters. In \"Hibs at 150: Down the Slope with Football’s Great Pioneers\", author Aidan Smith delivers a riveting chronicle that captures every pulse-pounding moment, from the club’s humble 19th-century beginnings to its rollercoaster ride through modern Scottish football. \u003cbr\u003eSmith’s storytelling is a masterclass in soccer nostalgia and insight, spotlighting legendary figures like Peter Marinello, whose sixties swagger set hearts racing, and Jim Herriot, the real-life goalkeeper who inspired as much as any fictional hero. The book dives deep into unforgettable Hibs moments, celebrating iconic triumphs like the pass of the millennium while reflecting honestly on the club’s darkest hours, including the infamous wine bar saga that nearly toppled all that had been built. Each of the 150 bite-sized chapters peels back a new layer, offering fresh perspectives on the club's most revered pioneers, electrifying matches, and enduring rivalries. \u003cbr\u003ePerfect for lifelong supporters and new fans alike, \"Hibs at 150\" bridges generations with vivid storytelling and rich football history. It’s a must-read for anyone searching for the true spirit of Scottish football, the roots of Hibernian FC, and the characters who turned a parish pastime into a source of national pride. Whether you’re fascinated by club legends, historic matches, or the cultural heartbeat of Leith, this book delivers a compelling tribute to 150 years of green-and-white glory. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(218, 32, 42);\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePublished: Nov 6, 2025\u003cbr\u003ePublisher: Visit \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/birlinn.co.uk\/arena-sport\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eArena Sport\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e \u003cbr\u003ePrice: £12.99\u003cbr\u003ePaperback: 416 pages\u003cbr\u003eISBN-13: 9781913759254\u003cbr\u003eDimensions: 198 x 129 (mm)\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Published November 2025","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55680941097340,"sku":null,"price":12.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/Hibs-at-150_208d8cc7-206a-41bd-ad41-df51c2d79390.png?v=1756287974"},{"product_id":"the-creation-of-modern-buenos-aires-football-civic-associations-barrios-and-politics-1912-1943","title":"The Creation of Modern Buenos Aires: Football, Civic Associations, Barrios, and Politics, 1912-1943","description":"\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 170, 255);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"font-size: xx-large;\"\u003eThe Secret History of Buenos Aires \u003cbr\u003eWhere Soccer Meets Civic Power \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003eIn the first decades of the twentieth century, Buenos Aires underwent a profound transformation shaped by explosive urban growth, new political reforms, and the rise of dynamic civic associations. Football clubs, bibliotecas populares, sociedades de fomento, and universidades populares emerged as driving forces behind this evolution, turning neighbourhoods—or barrios—into vibrant hubs of activity and identity. These organisations were not just centres for social gathering; they became the backbone of the city’s civil society, fostering a sense of belonging and shared purpose among residents while connecting them to the rapidly changing political landscape. \u003cbr\u003eFootball clubs in Buenos Aires, such as those that would later become world-famous—like Boca Juniors and River Plate—served as much more than sporting institutions. They were epicentres of communal pride and political engagement, offering residents a space to forge collective identities rooted in the barrio. Alongside them, bibliotecas populares provided access to education, while sociedades de fomento advocated for community improvements and universidades populares opened new pathways for practical training. Together, these civic associations helped ordinary citizens claim a stake in the city’s future, solidifying a barrio identity that would define Buenos Aires for generations. \u003cbr\u003eHistorian Joel Horowitz’s \"The Creation of Modern Buenos Aires\" reveals how these associations became vital links in the city’s evolving political system, especially after the 1912 voting reform that expanded male suffrage and curbed electoral fraud. By bridging the gap between local communities and the broader political sphere, football clubs and civic organisations empower politicians to genuinely connect with their constituents. This book offers a compelling exploration of how sports, education, and grassroots activism shaped not only the culture of Buenos Aires but also its democracy, making it essential reading for anyone interested in soccer, Argentine history, or the intersection of community and politics.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(218, 32, 42);\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePublished: December 31, 2025\u003cbr\u003ePublisher: Visit \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.unmpress.com\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eUniversity of New Mexico Press\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e \u003cbr\u003ePrice: £22.99\u003cbr\u003ePaperback: 216 pages\u003cbr\u003eISBN-13: 9780826368874\u003cbr\u003eDimensions: 229 x 152 (mm)\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED DECEMBER 2025","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55680947650940,"sku":null,"price":22.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/The-Creation-of-Modern-Buenos-Aires_ff2cbdbf-6df4-4802-a3a7-d0a332c97935.png?v=1756288102"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/collections\/LAST_MAN_STANDING.png?v=1746524976","url":"https:\/\/www.soccerbooks.co.uk\/bs\/collections\/paperbacks.oembed?page=5","provider":"SOCCER BOOKS","version":"1.0","type":"link"}