In his latest work, Chris Lee, known for his thoughtful exploration of football culture through Outside Write, embarks on an ambitious journey through the complex tapestry of Irish football. Following his acclaimed works on football pioneers and anti-fascism, Lee's "Shades of Green" proves to be his most nuanced work yet, weaving together history, politics, and passion in a compelling narrative that illuminates one of football's most fascinating stories.
The book's greatest strength lies in its comprehensive examination of the 1921 split that shaped Irish football's destiny. Lee skilfully unpacks how the Leinster Football Association's separation from the Irish Football Association created ripples that still influence the game today. Through careful research and engaging storytelling, he transforms what could have been dry historical analysis into a vivid portrait of a nation's sporting evolution.
Lee's journey takes readers from historic stadiums to George Best's living room, each stop carefully chosen to illuminate different aspects of Irish football culture. His exploration of contemporary issues, particularly the development of women's football and the modern matchday experience, provides fresh perspectives on a rapidly evolving sporting landscape. The book is particularly timely, coming as Irish football enjoys a renaissance, with League of Ireland attendance showing remarkable growth.
sets "Shades of Green" apart is its attention to the cultural dimensions of Irish football. Lee's conversations with fans, historians, and academics create a rich oral history that complements the documented facts. His examination of football murals and tifos reveals how the sport has become intertwined with expressions of identity and community in both the Republic and Northern Ireland.
The author's treatment of the pioneering Irish players and coaches who spread the game globally is particularly fascinating. These stories, often overlooked in broader football histories, demonstrate Ireland's significant contribution to football's worldwide development. Lee's research brings these forgotten figures to life, adding an important chapter to the global football narrative.
The book doesn't shy away from challenging topics, addressing how the sport became vulnerable to social change and developed as a fractured system. However, it balances this critical analysis with stories of hope and renewal, particularly in its examination of contemporary developments in Irish football culture.
Verdict: "Shades of Green" is more than a sports book—it's a cultural history that uses football as a lens to examine Irish society's evolution over the past century. Lee's accessible writing style, combined with his evident passion for the subject matter, makes complex historical and social themes digestible for casual readers while providing enough depth to satisfy serious football scholars.
ROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48 [Delivered to You Last Week, March 2025]
Published: March 10, 2025
Price: £14.99
ISBN-10: 1801509476
ISBN-13: 9781801509473
Paperback: 272 pages
Dimensions: 216 x 138 mm 
