Hardcover Published 8th September 2025, 256 pages
Proper Bosses
Wednesday’s Top Gaffers Laid Bare!
Ruling the Roost: The Managers of Sheffield Wednesday is another masterful piece of football writing by Richard Crooks, a name familiar to anyone who loves Sheffield football. With a deft touch and evident passion for his subject, Crooks guides readers through the history of one of England's most storied clubs, as seen through the eyes and decisions of the men responsible for managing the team from the dugout.
Crooks distinguishes himself as an author by skilfully fusing meticulous research with an approachable, conversational style that brings even the most complex statistics to life. Instead of simply recounting the facts and figures, he infuses each manager with life, capturing their personalities, philosophies, and the challenges they faced under the unwavering gaze of the Hillsborough faithful. The book doesn’t shy away from the drama and struggle—Crooks dives into the club’s triumphs, heartbreaks, and off-field sagas, from championship glory to brushes with the lower leagues and infamous scandals.
The inclusion of first-hand insights from ex-Wednesday manager and player Chris Turner, as well as sharp, contemporary commentary from respected broadcaster Alan Biggs, adds even more depth to the narrative. Crooks adeptly showcases the distinctive characteristics and peculiarities of each manager, ranging from Jack Charlton's renowned 'little black book' to the manager whose win percentage endures for decades. Each chapter reads like a mini-biography, complete with anecdotes and behind-the-scenes details that only a true insider—or a tireless researcher—could uncover.
Crooks’s writing shines most when he’s discussing the culture and atmosphere of Sheffield Wednesday. You can almost hear the roar of the crowd, feel the tension of a relegation battle, and share in the relief and joy of a hard-fought win. His deep affection for the Owls is obvious, but he never lets it cloud his judgement: he’s as honest about the failures as the successes, giving each manager a fair hearing.
For anyone who loves football history or simply appreciates great sports writing, Ruling the Roost is a must-read. Richard Crooks’s storytelling is as sharp as ever, making this more than just a book about managers—it’s a love letter to a club, a city, and the beautiful game itself.
ROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48 Delivered to You 2nd Week, September 2025
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Published: September 8, 2025
Price: £18.99
Paperback: 256 pages
ISBN-10: 1836801823
ISBN-13: 978-1836801825
Dimensions: 222 x 144 (mm)
Why Pre-order?
Since 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.
