Ron Saunders The Manager
Who Changed Aston Villa Forever
Few figures in football history command respect quite like Ron Saunders, a man synonymous with Aston Villa’s renaissance and triumph under impossible odds. Graham Denton’s Odd Man Out: The Fascinating Story of Ron Saunders’ Reign at Aston Villa is a richly detailed tribute that draws from primary sources and personal experience—Denton's encyclopaedic knowledge of the club is matched only by his flair for storytelling. This book is essential reading for anyone searching for insight into English football in the late 1970s and early 1980s, combining tales of promotion from the old Division Two with a celebration of the beautiful game’s enduring spirit.
Denton casts fresh light on how Saunders transformed Aston Villa into title winners, skilfully weaving interviews, match reports, and club lore into a compelling account that will resonate with lifelong supporters and football newcomers alike. Readers discover not only how Saunders masterminded two League Cup final victories—including a marathon three-game clash with Everton—but also how Villa inflicted Liverpool’s heaviest defeat of the 1970s. Through every triumph and setback, Graham Denton remains focused on what truly made Saunders a legend: his unwavering leadership and vision for Villa Park.
Of course, Denton does not shy away from the controversies that defined Saunders’ tenure. The epic battles with charismatic chairman ‘Deadly’ Doug Ellis and the dramatic fallout leading to Andy Gray’s sale are recounted in vivid detail. These episodes serve not only as tabloid fodder but also as turning points that ultimately shaped modern Aston Villa. Denton’s narrative explores Saunders’ decision to replace Gray with journeyman Peter Withe, setting the stage for Villa’s unforgettable league title—their first in 71 years. It’s a masterclass in long-form football writing, made all the more valuable by Denton’s personal connection to the era.
The book is also a poignant reminder of the unpredictability at the heart of English football, culminating in the shock resignation that saw Saunders leave Villa on the very cusp of European glory. What could cause a manager to walk away after building one of the greatest teams in Aston Villa history? Denton’s meticulous research offers possible answers while inviting readers to draw their own conclusions. With Odd Man Out, Graham Denton not only illuminates the story of Ron Saunders but also preserves a golden age of football for future generations, making this work indispensable for anyone passionate about club history, soccer nostalgia, and the true meaning of loyalty.
ROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48
Published: October 6, 2025
Price: £12.99
Paperback: 352 pages
ISBN-13: 978-1836800439
Dimensions: 198 x 129 (mm)
