{"title":"Billy Wrights Book of Soccer","description":"\u003cp\u003eBilly Wrights Book of Soccer Annuals\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"charles-buchan-s-football-monthly-october-1952","title":"Charles Buchan’s Football Monthly October 1951","description":"\u003ccenter\u003e\n\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/FLICK-THRU.png?\"\u003e \u003ciframe title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/Xcu__24Toys?si=EAoBBaTMIoXypMmb\" height=\"315\" width=\"560\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e \u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"font-size: large;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eIssue 2 features Billy Wright of Wolves on the cover.\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/center\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003eThe first issue of Charles Buchan’s Football Monthly hit the shelves more than seventy years ago, in September 1951. Buchan, a veteran journalist with the News Chronicle and the BBC, had noticed a gap in the market for a dedicated football magazine—and he was right. The magazine launched with an impressive circulation of 60,000, a figure most modern publications would envy. By 1959, that number had doubled to 120,000; by 1961, it climbed to 130,000; and at its peak in 1967, the magazine was selling a staggering 250,000 copies every month. The \"Boys Club\", launched as part of the magazine, had 100,000 registered members by 1968.\u003cbr\u003eBuchan himself wrote a regular column from the magazine’s inception until his sudden death in the south of France in June 1960. Remarkably, his final column appeared in the August issue as usual, underscoring how unexpected his passing was. The September 1960 issue devoted two pages to tributes from figures across the football world.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 128, 0);\"\u003eThe cover and back page are both intact, though the magazine naturally shows its age after more than seventy years. We’ve carefully cleaned away surface marks using our \u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(218, 32, 42);\"\u003eAbsorene system,\u003c\/span\u003e leaving the covers looking as fresh as possible. All pages are present, with no signs of previous owners’ names or any newsagent markings. The staples—while a little dull—are not rusted and still hold the binding firmly. This particular copy would make a strong addition to any collection; it’s unlikely you’ll come across a better example.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"ISSUE 2: PUBLISHED OCTOBER 1951","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":39759917023278,"sku":"","price":50.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/products\/Charles_Buchans_Football_Monthly_Octoberr_1951.png?v=1648490255"},{"product_id":"billy-wrights-book-of-soccer-1958","title":"Billy Wright's Book Of Soccer No. 1","description":"\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003e\"Billy Wright's Book of Soccer,\" first published in 1958 by Stanley Paul Publications, offers a captivating glimpse into the world of football through the eyes of one of Britain's most celebrated footballers, Billy Wright. Known for his remarkable career and leadership as England's captain, Wright shares his extensive knowledge and experiences in this engaging book.\u003cbr\u003eWright draws on his vast experience with the England national team, providing first-hand accounts of his tours and matches in numerous countries. His insights provide readers with a unique perspective on international football during his era.\u003cbr\u003eThe book takes readers on a journey through some of the most famous football grounds and introduces them to the colourful personalities that populate the sport, including the comedians who bring humour to the game. .\u003cbr\u003eWright shares his experiences and challenges of playing against top continental teams, offering a glimpse into the competitive spirit and tactical nuances of international matches. .\u003cbr\u003eThe book reveals intriguing stories about player transfers, including unusual deals and the sometimes surprising circumstances surrounding player signings.\u003cbr\u003eWright introduces readers to the world of talent scouting, sharing amusing anecdotes about how scouts discover and sign young talents, highlighting the sometimes unconventional methods used.\u003cbr\u003eThe book covers various aspects of soccer, providing revelations about the sport that will fascinate fans and followers. Wright's anecdotes and stories add a personal touch, making the book both informative and entertaining.\u003cbr\u003e\"Billy Wright's Book of Soccer\" provides readers with a wealth of football history and anecdotes, providing an intimate view of the sport from the perspective of one of its legends. Wright's engaging storytelling and unique insights make this book a must-read for football enthusiasts and anyone interested in the history of the game. .\u003cbr\u003eThis book is ideal for football fans, historians, and anyone interested in the evolution of soccer during the mid-20th century. Wright's personal accounts and stories provide a rich historical context, making it a valuable addition to any sports library.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c!------------------------------------------------------------------------\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003e\n\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe annual\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eis in excellent condition; the orange boards are bright and spotless, the binding is very tight, and all pages are also clean and bright. The PFP features a beautifully crafted Christmas gift inscription. The dust jacket had a few issues with minor tears and chipping. We thoroughly cleaned and overhauled the dust jacket before covering it with our \u003cstrong\u003eArchival Dust Jacket System\u003c\/strong\u003e. The dust jacket has certainly done its job for the last 66 years.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED JANUARY 1958","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40431698378798,"sku":null,"price":30.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/ANNUALS_0005.png?v=1694425980"},{"product_id":"football-is-my-passport","title":"Football is My Passport","description":"\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003e\"Football is My Passport\" is an autobiography by Billy Wright, who is well-known as the former captain of both the England national team and Wolverhampton Wanderers FC. This book provides an in-depth look at Wright's life and career, offering insights into his journey from a young football enthusiast to becoming a prominent figure in English football. Billy Wright has skippered England in more internationals and in more countries than any other soccer player in the history of the game (circa 1960's).\u003cbr\u003eHis has been on a fascinating football trail that has led from Rio to Moscow, from Dakar to New York, from the Old World to the New. Possessing such unique experience, he can write with complete authority on England’s international triumphs and shortcomings and on the great hopes he nurses for the future. As fine a club player as he is an international, Billy Wright emerges as a young man who has thought deeply about the game. Here are his forthright but scrupulously fair comments on such provocative matters as television and football, the effect of modern conditions upon would be players, and the value of star footballers in a team. England’s captain has written a book which will have an immediate appeal to all interested in Association football.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"A Stanley Paul Publication","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54698739958140,"sku":null,"price":25.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/Nov162024_0002.png?v=1731937131"},{"product_id":"billy-wrights-book-of-soccer-no-2","title":"Billy Wright's Book Of Soccer No.2","description":"\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003e\"Billy Wright's Book of Soccer Number 2,\" published in 1959 by Stanley Paul Publications, is an engaging compilation that reflects on the insights and experiences of one of soccer's most celebrated figures, Billy Wright. Known globally as a legendary captain of both England and Wolverhampton Wanderers, Wright offers readers a unique glimpse into the world of soccer from an insider's perspective. \u003cbr\u003eBilly Wright shares his thoughts on various aspects of the game, including captaincy, the influence of famous international players, and the dynamics of World Cup football. His first-hand experiences provide readers with a rich understanding of soccer during that era. \u003cbr\u003eThe book includes special contributions from several renowned footballers of the time, such as Nat Lofthouse, David Herd, Bill Eckersley, Wilbur Cush, Eddie Firmani, Peter Brabrook, and Ron Greenwood. These contributions add diverse perspectives and enrich the content with expert opinions. \u003cbr\u003eA highlight of the book is its extensive collection of photographs featuring the stars of the day. The book showcases notable players such as Clough, Kevan, Smith, and Charlton, along with goalkeepers Gregg, Matthews, Farm, and Kelsey. These images capture the essence of soccer from that era and bring the text to life\u003cbr\u003eThe book covers various soccer-related topics, making it a comprehensive source for fans and enthusiasts. Sections such as \"Drake's Ducklings\" and \"The Merry Whistlers\" provide unique insights into different facets of the game, while players like Haynes, Quixall, Broadbent, and Ernie Taylor are highlighted as \"architects of victory.\" \"Billy Wright's Book of Soccer Number 2\" is an invaluable resource for soccer enthusiasts, providing a nostalgic journey to the heyday of the sport. It combines engaging narratives with visual storytelling through its rich photographic content, making it a delightful read for anyone passionate about soccer history. The book stands as a testament to Billy Wright's enduring legacy in the world of football. \u003cbr div=\"\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\" align=\"justify\"\u003e\n\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe annual\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e is in excellent condition; the blue boards are bright and spotless, the binding is very tight, and all pages are also clean and bright. The inside cover features a beautifully crafted Christmas gift inscription. The dust jacket had a few issues with minor shelf wear and has been price clipped. We thoroughly cleaned and overhauled the dust jacket before covering it with our Archival Dust Jacket System. The dust jacket has certainly done its job for the last 66 years.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED JANUARY 1959","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54832726901116,"sku":null,"price":30.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/BILLY1959_0001.png?v=1733049708"},{"product_id":"billy-wrights-book-of-soccer-no-3","title":"Billy Wright's Book Of Soccer No.3","description":"\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003eThis third edition of Billy Wright's Book of Soccer brings together some of the most influential figures in English football of the late 1950s, curated by one of the game's greatest captains. Wright, who led the Wolves to three First Division titles in the 1950s, assembled an impressive roster of contributors for this annual publication. \u003cbr\u003eDistinguished Contributors include: \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTom Finney:\u003c\/strong\u003e One of the era's finest players, Finney was a two-time Footballer of the Year (1953-54, 1956-57) who earned 76 England caps. His insights as Preston North End's star forward were invaluable to readers. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDave Mackay\u003c\/strong\u003e: Fresh from his move to Tottenham, Mackay had just joined Spurs from Hearts in March 1959, bringing Scottish flair to English football. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDon Revie:\u003c\/strong\u003e A pragmatic tactician and astute football mind, Revie's contribution came just before his historic appointment as Leeds United manager in 1961. \u003cbr\u003eBilly Wright's own contributions to the book carried significant weight. As England captain and Wolves' legendary defender who led them to multiple titles, his insights were particularly valuable to readers. \u003cbr\u003eThis edition, published in 1960, captured the fascinating crossroads of English football. Wright himself had recently become the first footballer to earn 100 international caps, while contributors like Finney were approaching the end of their illustrious careers, and others like Mackay were embarking on new chapters that would define English football in the 1960s. \u003cbr\u003eThe lavishly illustrated action photographs and exclusive articles made this third edition an essential addition to any football fan's library, preserving a crucial moment in the sport's evolution through the eyes of its greatest practitioners. \u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\" style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\n\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe annual\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e is in excellent condition; the blue boards are bright and spotless, the binding is very tight, and all pages are also clean and bright. The inside cover features a beautifully crafted Christmas gift inscription. The dust jacket had a few issues with minor shelf wear and has been price clipped. We thoroughly cleaned and overhauled the dust jacket before covering it with our Archival Dust Jacket System. The dust jacket has certainly done its job for the last 66 years.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED JANUARY 1960","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54836948304252,"sku":null,"price":30.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/BILLY1960_0001.png?v=1733386616"},{"product_id":"billy-wrights-book-of-soccer-no-4","title":"Billy Wright's Book Of Soccer No.4","description":"\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003eA remarkable piece of football literature from one of England's most legendary figures, the 4th edition of Billy Wright's Book of Soccer stands as a testament to the golden age of English football. Published by Stanley Paul in 1961, this hardback edition carries particular significance given that it features contributions from some of the most influential players of the era. \u003cbr\u003eThe book's authority stems from its primary author, Billy Wright, who was the first footballer in the world to earn 100 international caps. As England's captain in three World Cups (1950, 1954, and 1958), Wright's insights into the beautiful game were unparalleled. His expertise and leadership made him the perfect curator for this comprehensive guide to soccer. \u003cbr\u003eWhat sets this edition apart is its impressive roster of contributors, featuring some of the era's most prominent players: \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNat Lofthouse\u003c\/strong\u003e - Known as the 'Lion of Vienna,' and a one-club legend at Bolton Wanderers\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDave Mackay\u003c\/strong\u003e - A stalwart who would go on to be part of Tottenham's historic Double-winning side of 1960-61\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRay Wilson, Bryan Douglas, \u003c\/strong\u003eand other England internationals\u003cbr\u003eA unique perspective from \u003cstrong\u003eJim Parks\u003c\/strong\u003e, showcasing the crossover between cricket and football\u003cbr\u003ePublished by Stanley Paul, a publishing house established in London in 1906, this edition has become increasingly valuable. Pre-1966 football books from Stanley Paul are particularly sought after by collectors in 2024, making this volume not just a historical document but also a valuable collector's item. \u003cbr\u003eThe book's strength lies in its comprehensive approach to the sport, combining tactical insights, personal experiences, and historical perspectives. The inclusion of Harold Hastings, the Wembley historian, adds depth to the historical context. The lavish illustration with action photographs from the season makes it both an educational resource and a visual time capsule of football in the early 1960s. \u003cbr\u003eThis fourth edition serves as a bridge between football's past and its evolution into the modern era. Published just five years before England's 1966 World Cup triumph, it captures a crucial period in English football's development, documented by those who were actively shaping the game. \u003cbr\u003eFor historians, collectors, and football enthusiasts, Billy Wright's Book of Soccer (4th Edition) remains an invaluable resource that combines expert analysis, historical documentation, and the authentic voices of football's golden age.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 170, 255);\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan class=\"css-16wu9tm e178251s14\"\u003eA treasure chest of football wisdom from England's first 100-cap hero and his all-star team. - Soccerbooks 2024\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED JANUARY 1961","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54843821457788,"sku":null,"price":30.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/BILLY1961_0001.png?v=1733976444"},{"product_id":"billy-wrights-book-of-soccer-no-5","title":"Billy Wright's Book Of Soccer No.5","description":"\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003e\nIn the realm of football literature, few works carry the historical weight and collector's appeal of Billy Wright's \"Book of Soccer.\" This 1962 fifth edition, published by the prestigious Stanley Paul, stands as a remarkable artifact from an era when football was transforming into the modern game we know today.\n\u003cbr\u003e\nWhat sets this edition apart is its extraordinary assembly of football royalty. Wright, then Arsenal's manager and former England captain, curated contributions from an impressive roster of contemporary stars. The lineup reads like a Who's Who of 1960s British football:\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cb\u003e\n◾ Ron Flowers (Wolves and England)\u003cbr\u003e\n◾ John White (Spurs and Scotland)\u003cbr\u003e\n◾ Ray Crawford (Ipswich and England)\u003cbr\u003e\n◾ Jim Armfield (Blackpool and England)\u003cbr\u003e\n◾ Jimmy McIlroy (Burnley and Ireland)\u003cbr\u003e\n◾ Ron Springett (Sheffield Wednesday and England)\u003cbr\u003e\n◾ Jimmy Dickinson (Portsmouth and England)\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/b\u003e\nPublished four years before England's historic 1966 World Cup victory, this edition captures football at a pivotal moment. The tactical insights and perspectives shared by these legends offer modern readers a window into how the game was played and understood in the early 1960s.\n\u003cbr\u003e\nFor modern collectors, this Stanley Paul edition holds particular significance. Pre-1966 football publications from this publisher have become highly prized in 2024's memorabilia market, making this volume not just a fascinating read but a valuable investment piece.\n\n\u003cbr\u003e\nThe book's \"lavishly illustrated\" action shots provide a vital visual record of the era's playing style, kits, and stadiums. These photographs, capturing the season's defining moments, offer invaluable documentation of football's evolution.\n\n\u003cbr\u003e\nBilly Wright's series had already established itself as one of the \"most authoritative and readable\" football publications globally by its fifth edition. This reputation speaks to the quality of insight and analysis contained within its pages.\n\u003cbr\u003e\nFor contemporary football enthusiasts, coaches, and historians, this book serves multiple purposes:\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cb\u003e\n◾ A primary source for understanding tactical evolution\u003cbr\u003e\n◾A glimpse into the mindset of 1960s professional footballers\u003cbr\u003e\n◾ A treasure trove of first-hand accounts from legendary players\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/b\u003e\n\"Billy Wright's Book of Soccer\" (5th Edition) represents more than just a football an a historical document that captures a crucial period in football's development. Its value extends beyond its collector's price tag, offering invaluable insights into how the beautiful game was played and understood during a transformative era. For collectors, historians, and football enthusiasts alike, this volume remains an essential piece of football literature, combining practical wisdom with historical significance in a way few other publications can match.\n\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 170, 255);\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan class=\"css-16wu9tm e178251s14\"\u003eSeven masters decode a Time Capsule of Football's Golden Age. ~ Soccerbooks 2024\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED JANUARY 1962","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54844847128956,"sku":null,"price":30.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/BILLY1962_0001.png?v=1734025097"},{"product_id":"billy-wrights-book-of-soccer-no-6","title":"Billy Wright's Book Of Soccer No.6","description":"\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOne of the most popular of all football annuals. That is the verdict of\u003cbr\u003eyoung\" soccer fans on Billy Wright’s Book of Soccer. This year’s edition contains many readable feature articles by some of the star footballers in the country.\u003cbr\u003eBilly Wright’s team\u003cbr\u003eof contributors include:\u003cbr\u003eMAURICE NORMAN\u003cbr\u003e(Spurs and England)\u003cbr\u003eRON FLOW E RS\u003cbr\u003e(Wolves and England)\u003cbr\u003eJOHN CONNELLY\u003cbr\u003e(Burnley)\u003cbr\u003eROY VERNON\u003cbr\u003e(Burton)\u003cbr\u003eJIMMY ARMFIELD\u003cbr\u003e(Blackpool and England)\u003cbr\u003eJOHN W H ITE\u003cbr\u003e(Spurs and Scotland)\u003cbr\u003eThe whole book is lavishly illustrated with the best of the season’s action pictures.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED JANUARY 1966","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54845257744764,"sku":null,"price":30.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/BILLY1963_0001.png?v=1734081057"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/collections\/AAA_SQUARE_FOR_BOOKS.png?v=1734024558","url":"https:\/\/www.soccerbooks.co.uk\/zh\/collections\/billy-wrights-book-of-soccer.oembed","provider":"SOCCER BOOKS","version":"1.0","type":"link"}