Revie’s Boys: The Lost Hope of Glory, Glory Leeds United by Ian Hall is an unflinching chronicle of Leeds United’s turbulent descent from English football’s summit. Hall’s sharp narrative meticulously explores how Allan Clarke, Eddie Gray, and Billy Bremner, revered as heirs to Don Revie’s legacy, grappled with the impossible task of restoring the club’s former glory. As Hall reveals in vivid detail, Clarke’s promise of silverware ended in relegation, Gray’s nurturing of Leeds United’s talented youth was ultimately stifled by time, and Bremner—iconic on the pitch—came heartbreakingly close to promotion and FA Cup success, only for hopes to collapse in the dying moments.
Ian Hall’s book is essential reading for anyone fascinated by football history and the unique culture of Leeds United. Through candid interviews with players and staff who lived through the post-Revie era, Hall exposes the raw emotion and relentless pressure faced by those trying to revive a fallen giant. The author’s long-standing commitment to football writing, coupled with his deep admiration for the club, shines through on every page, making this account both authoritative and deeply personal. Hall’s careful research and storytelling ensure that each chapter resonates with authenticity and passion for the beautiful game.
What sets Revie’s Boys apart is Hall’s ability to situate Leeds United’s struggles within the broader context of English football. He examines the brutal consequences of life in the second tier, where plummeting attendances forced Elland Road’s sale and the club’s very identity was challenged. Hall’s expertise is evident as he unpacks the tactical decisions, boardroom battles, and shifting fortunes that defined this era, all while celebrating the indomitable spirit of players and supporters alike. His work invites readers to consider not only what went wrong, but also the enduring lessons for today’s Leeds United.
For Leeds fans, football historians, and anyone drawn to stories of triumph and heartbreak, Ian Hall’s Revie’s Boys is a must-read. The book’s careful blend of nostalgia, analysis, and firsthand testimony makes it a compelling addition to the literature of British football. Hall’s thoughtful approach ensures that even as he recounts a period of despair, he honours the resilience of those who wore the famous white shirt and those who still fill Elland Road with hope. In capturing this lost hope, Hall has given football readers a story that truly matters.
ROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48
Publisher: Fascinating Selection of Books – A Must See!
Published: May 11, 2026
Price: £19.99
Hardback: 320 pages
ISBN-13: 978-1836802808
Dimensions: 22.2 x 14.4 x 2.5 cm
