In 1968, as football transitioned from a mere sport to a worldwide phenomenon, the International Football Book commemorated its tenth anniversary with an edition that now serves as an enthralling window into the world of football. This volume, packed with insights from the era's biggest names, offers modern readers a glimpse into a pivotal moment in football history.
The book's strength lies in its impressive roster of contributors. From Matt Busby's prescient warnings about soccer's "Common Market" to George Best's ironically memorable quote about never tripping over his wallet, the publication gathered voices that would prove significant in shaping football's future. Perhaps most notably, it featured Jock Stein, that year's Football Sword of Honour recipient, whose Celtic team had revolutionised Scottish football and earned international respect.
One of the book's most intriguing pieces was its investigation into Hungary's "Third Man Theory", which the editors claimed solved a 15-year mystery about the tactical innovation that made the Hungarian team of the 1950s nearly invincible. This kind of analytical deep dive demonstrates the publication's commitment to serious football journalism rather than mere celebrity profiles.
The book does not avoid controversy either. Antonio Ubaldo Rattin's dismissive comments about England's World Cup chances in Mexico provide an interesting historical counterpoint, while the three-part survey on violence in football—featuring perspectives from a psychologist, referee, and novelist—shows how some of the sport's challenges have remained remarkably consistent over the decades.
What makes this tenth edition particularly valuable is its comprehensive approach. Beyond the feature articles, it included over 150 photographs, statistical analysis from Gordon Jeffery, and the popular 'Top Twenty' feature. Contributors like Billy Bremner, Alan Ball, and Terry Venables offered tactical insights that, while rooted in their era, often remain relevant today.
Reading this volume in retrospect, what's most striking is how it captured football at a crucial turning point. The sport was becoming more tactical, more international, and more commercial. The concerns voiced by figures like Matt Busby about European competition expansion eerily foreshadow today's debates about Super Leagues and fixture congestion.
The International Football Book Number 10 stands as more than just a sports annual—it's a historical document that chronicles football's transition into the modern era. While some of its tactical discussions may seem dated, the fundamental questions it raises about the sport's direction, commercialisation, and evolution continue to resonate more than five decades later.
For football historians, tactical enthusiasts, or anyone interested in the sport's development, this volume offers invaluable insights into how the beautiful game was viewed, played, and debated during a transformative period in its history.
ROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48 Publisher: Souvenir Press Ltd, London
Published: 1968Price: £19.99Hardcover: 144 page
This rare collector's edition, published over 57 years ago, remains in exceptional condition. The book features good green cloth boards and a remarkably tight binding. All pages maintain their original brightness and cleanliness, free from any markings or inscriptions.
The dust jacket shows just a faint hint of shelf wear now and has been preserved in our archival protection sleeve. The original price of 15s remains intact on the unclipped jacket.
Given its immaculate preservation and historical significance, this volume represents a true collector's piece that would make a distinguished addition to any serious football literature collection.
