The pages of Charles Buchan’s Football Monthly in the early 1950s introduced readers to a Leicester City side quietly building a reputation for resilience. The magazine’s photographers caught the mud-splattered faces of Arthur Rowley and Derek Hines, names that would soon become synonymous with goals at Filbert Street. In-depth features chronicled the club’s steady climb through the Second Division, lauding the side’s blend of youthful enthusiasm and dogged determination. Columnists speculated about “what might be” if City’s momentum continued, and the magazine’s trademark player profiles gave readers a glimpse into the lives of Leicester’s emerging stars, setting anticipation high for bigger days ahead.
By 1961, the blue-and-white shirts of Leicester City commanded national attention, and Charles Buchan’s Football Monthly was all over their remarkable run to the FA Cup Final. That year, the magazine ran a full-colour spread on City’s march to Wembley, led by the likes of Gordon Banks in goal and Frank McLintock in midfield. The coverage was electric—detailed tactical diagrams, personal interviews, and atmospheric shots of the team’s journey south. Though Leicester fell short against a powerful Tottenham Hotspur, the magazine framed their achievement as a triumph of spirit and teamwork, cementing that cup run as a proud moment in the club’s history.
The magazine’s July 1963 issue captured the euphoria as Leicester returned to Wembley, this time for the League Cup Final. The reporters hailed the partnership of Ken Keyworth and Mike Stringfellow, whose goals had fired City to the brink of silverware. Fans pored over exclusive behind-the-scenes photos: John Sjoberg’s stoic defending, Banks’ acrobatic saves, and the celebrations that followed their semi-final win. Leicester’s ultimate victory in the League Cup—beating Stoke City over two legs—was celebrated in punchy headlines and glowing editorials, celebrating the club’s first major trophy and the tactical acumen of manager Matt Gillies.
Charles Buchan’s Football Monthly didn’t miss the drama of Leicester’s near-miss in the 1969 FA Cup Final, either. The build-up was intense, with features on Peter Shilton—already touted as England’s next great goalkeeper—and captain David Nish. Glossy pull-out posters of the squad adorned countless bedroom walls. The magazine’s post-match analysis was both sympathetic and proud, highlighting Leicester’s underdog spirit and the heartbreak of losing to Manchester City. Yet, the tone remained optimistic, with writers emphasising the youthful core of the squad and the promise of future success on Filbert Street.
Throughout the 1951-1972 era, the magazine spotlighted a parade of Leicester heroes—Richie Norman, Graham Cross, and the mercurial Allan Clarke—each earning their place in the magazine’s iconic player profiles. Reports celebrated City’s attacking football and loyal supporters, capturing the sights and sounds of Filbert Street on a Saturday afternoon. Charles Buchan’s Football Monthly charted every high and heartbreak, ensuring that Leicester City’s triumphs and near-glories were immortalised in the hearts of football fans across the nation.
ROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48Published: November 1, 2025Price: £21.99 Paperback: 158 pagesDimensions: 154 x 236 (mm)
