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Smarter, Not Harder
Smarter, Not Harder: Maximise Your Elite Inner Performance is the straight-talking manual for footballers who want to unlock freedom and consistency on and off the pitch. No fluff, no jargon: just real football stories and proven tools. Inside you will learn how to let go of mistakes quickly, build lasting confidence, create simple routines and handle pressure with courage. This book is built from lived experiences, not theory, and shows you how to break free from the shackles of self-doubt and expectation. It is written for professional footballers, but it’s also powerfully transformative for anyone chasing elite performance. Study this innovative book to unleash your full potential.
The Switch
After hitting 24 stone, Kyle Conway found himself imprisoned, not only by his own body, but also by the weight of his mind. And then – something changed. One night, under cover of darkness, he laced up his trainers and began to run. Those first steps were slow, heavy and filled with self-doubt, but they marked the start of a transformation few would believe possible. What began as a desperate attempt to escape obesity soon grew into a relentless pursuit of excellence. Kyle evolved into an ultra-marathon runner, conquering distances most people would never dream of, and he honed his skills as a boxer. His life became a testament to discipline, resilience and the quiet power of determination. But just as he began to live fully in this new identity, life dealt him a cruel blow when he was diagnosed with heart failure. Yet instead of surrendering to despair, Kyle faced his greatest challenge with the same courage that had carried him from darkness into light. His journey is a powerful reminder that strength is forged not in the absence of struggle, but because of it.
Birmingham City
Embark on a spellbinding journey through Birmingham City''s 150-year history, with unique insights from Blues legends such as Paul Robinson, Gil Merrick and Trevor Francis – plus stunning images that bring the club''s rich past to life.Foreword by Steven Knight of Peaky Blinders fame, a lifelong Birmingham City supporter.Keith Dixon has written ten previous books on Birmingham City, including autobiographies of Blues legends Gil Merrick, Paul Robinson and Trevor Francis.In this fascinating book you will:Get the inside scoop from Gil Merrick on what really happened at half-time in the much-debated 1956 FA Cup Final, when red-hot favourites Birmingham lost 3-1, plus which players sold tickets to toutsLearn about Trevor Francis''s favourite hat-trick, and why it meant so much to himDiscover a treasure trove of unique memorabilia captured in beautiful photographs, including a 1931 FA Cup Final shirt, sourced from special collectionsGet the lowdown on the club''s personnel throughout its history, with an appendix detailing every player to have played for Birmingham CityOn every page there''s something new and magical for the Blues fan, be it a fascinating fact or an eye-catching previously unseen photo. Just like the club that it chronicles – this book is one of a kind.
Heart of Midlothian
Heart of Midlothian: We''re in Safe Hands takes you on a spectacular journey through Hearts history via a stunning collection of match-worn goalkeeper shirts.From the gritty 1970s to Hearts'' triumphant 2023/24 European qualifying campaign, each shirt tells a unique tale, vividly captured through breathtaking images. Immerse yourself in extraordinary shirts that evoke both heartache and joy. Discover the shirts worn by players who featured in the Scottish Cup victories of 1998, 2006 and the unforgettable 2012 win against city rivals Hibernian. Unearth obscure and rare gems alongside cult classics. Meet the goalies with fleeting appearances and those with legendary status. From the traditional shirts of the 1970s and 80s to flamboyant 90s jerseys and today''s fan favourites, this kaleidoscopic collection charts the evolution of football fashion.Whether you''re a die-hard fan or a curious newcomer, the book celebrates the passion and history of the goalkeepers that define Heart of Midlothian FC.
Red Redemption
Red Redemption is the definitive account of how Aberdeen ended a 35-year wait to lift the Scottish Cup. Combining fan insight, exclusive interviews and historical reflection, it explores what the win meant to a club, a city – and its people.With a mix of reporting, history and analytical insight, the book is perfect for anyone who values storytelling that captures the heart and soul of a football club and its community.It brings you:The full story of Aberdeen’s 2025 Scottish Cup triumph – the club’s first major trophy in more than 30 yearsA deep dive back in time to look at the 1990 cup-winning side, with reflections from Aberdeen hero Brian Irvine, who scored the penalty that secured that unforgettable victoryA riveting account of 35 years of heartbreak, false dawns and missed chances that made the eventual trophy triumph all the sweeterExclusive interviews with former players, club insiders, journalists and lifelong fans who lived every momentAn exploration of the rise of manager Jimmy Thelin and his impact on the clubA full-colour photo section capturing that famous day at HampdenA look ahead to Aberdeen’s future, with exclusive insider perspectives on the club’s ambitions and vision and the trophy’s lasting legacyA must-read for Aberdeen FC supporters and fans of Scottish football, Red Revolution will also appeal to readers interested in regional football identity, underdog triumphs or the culture of the Scottish game beyond the Old Firm.
Red Dawn
Red Dawn: The Ballad of Tom Watson and Liverpool FC''s First Champions is the remarkable tale of how Tom Watson, a man from the North East of England, provided the spark that led to the Anfield club''s first two top-flight titles in 1901 and 1906.Watson was a visionary whose training methods, advice to players on diet and somewhat controversial recruitment strategy would no doubt raise eyebrows in the modern era. However, he would provide the blueprint for success that saw him become Liverpool''s longest-serving manager.Watson''s men were the superstars of their day, and included heroic captain Alex Raisbeck and lethal marksman Sam Raybould, not to mention the incomparable Matt McQueen, a future title-winning manager in his own right.Red Dawn is Jeff Goulding and Kieran Smith''s second collaboration, and like their previous title, The Untouchables: Anfield''s Band of Brothers, the book sheds new light on a previously unheralded period in the club''s history.
Escape
The definitive story of cult classic movie Escape to Victory, bringing you the inside track through new interviews with the football legends, cast and crew. From John Smith, author of the widely acclaimed Booked!, Second Yellow and Final Third!Blessed with the winning combination of Pelé, Michael Caine and Sylvester Stallone, this much-loved classic is the gold standard of football films. This compelling book:Explores the familiar tale we know from the screen, and a multitude of stories we haven’t heard from off screenOffers fresh insight from stars of the film and football legends – including Ossie Ardiles, Mike Summerbee, John Wark, Hallvar Thoresen, Paul van Himst, Russell Osman, Soren Lindsted and Werner Roth – as well as first-hand accounts from crew, with tales from on and off setTraces the film’s development from the germ of an idea, to the all-important casting and filming in Hungary, to achieving its cult statusGives a personal take on one of the author’s favourite films, with new observations and insightsPacked with stories and revelations, from Ipswich Town to Tinseltown, Escape is a must-read for film buffs and football fans, along with anyone who enjoys sharing anecdotes and trivia with friends. Everything you ever wanted to know about this timeless classic is here!
Senna
An earnest search for the truth behind the tragic death of Formula One legend Ayrton Senna – a catastrophe that still holds unanswered questions. By veteran journalist Franco Nugnes, who worked for Italy’s motorsport bible, Autosprint, at the time of Senna’s passing:Three decades on, Nugnes endeavours to get the inside story of that fateful 1994 event from some of the key figures, and to reconstruct what happened that dayHe interviews the likes of Andrea Ficarelli (Senna’s discoverer), Angelo Orsi (his close confidant), McLaren team coordinator Jo Ramírez, engineer Giorgio Ascanelli, Cesare Fiorio (head of Ferrari), Jean Todt (former Ferrari technical director), Luca di Montezemolo (former Ferrari president) and former racing drivers Riccardo Patrese and Érik ComasHe also obtains special insight from the doctor who tried to save Senna’s lifeThis book does not seek to sensationalise, but tries to uncover the true facts through a meticulous investigationA must-read for all Formula One and motorsport fans, this compelling book strives to bring us a better understanding of the tragedy.
Red Star Paris, More Than Just a Football Club
The untold story of French football club Red Star Paris, its amazing history and the absolute soap opera of two wild seasons.A defiantly community-driven club, Red Star has a global reputation as one of the last remaining outposts of authentic, anti-modern football. But a controversial takeover by a US investment firm pits fans against club in a bitter fight for France''s original rebel team.Written by former journalist Simon Binns, who spent two seasons getting under the skin of the club and the local area, this compelling book:Features exclusive interviews with the fans, local journalists, businesses, politicians, finance experts and former playersExplores the proud history of Red Star, one of the world''s oldest football clubs, and how its fierce underdog spirit and reputation for resistance were fashionedDetails how the ultras lock horns with the club in a battle that takes them from terraces to courtroom, while the team tries to escape non-league obscurityTells the story of a remarkable club, but uncovers much bigger issues in French football, society and what the relationship between a club and its community really meansForget PSG. Red Star is the biggest (and coolest) club in Paris. But it might not live to tell the tale. This is a must-read for football history and social history enthusiasts, plus any football fan disillusioned with the modern game.
Tackling the Game
Manchester United legend Paul Parker is as committed to voicing his opinion as he was to winning the ball. In this warts-and-all autobiography, there are absolutely no punches pulled. From a tough upbringing where racist abuse was commonplace, to life as an elite footballer playing in the world’s top competitions, one of the greatest defenders of his generation at last tells his story. In this unflinchingly honest and self-effacing insider account, Parker:Lifts the lid on one of the most fascinating eras in Old Trafford history, when a sleeping giant of world football returned to prominenceSpeaks with startling candour as he reveals stories from behind the scenes – in a dressing room peopled by Eric Cantona, Roy Keane, Bryan Robson and Peter Schmeichel, there was no room for shrinking violets!Shares his memories of playing at the unforgettable Italia 90 World Cup as a key contributor to one of England’s greatest campaignsDescribes what it was like as a senior professional who was forced to make way for the emerging class of ’92Explores the evolution of the game and shares his views on the state of modern footballTold with a unique storytelling voice, Tackling the Game is perfect for all Manchester United supporters and England fans, plus anyone interested in ’90s football.
Pass Master
Former Newcastle, Manchester United and Ireland midfielder Liam O’Brien lifts the lid on his eventful playing career and shares previously untold behind-the-scenes stories. Written with veteran journalist Jimmy Geoghegan. Liam grew up in working-class Dublin, but he didn’t become a full-time professional until signing for Manchester United at age 22. Two years later, despite being offered a new contract by Alex Ferguson, Liam made the brave call to leave Old Trafford and join struggling Newcastle United instead. Read this gripping memoir to discover:What life was like at Manchester United in the 1980sWhat it was like to play under Sir Alex Ferguson as he rebuilt Manchester UnitedWhat it was like to play for the Magpies as Kevin Keegan sparked a dramatic change in the club’s fortunes – to this day, Newcastle fans still sing a song about Liam and the famous goal he scored against SunderlandAn insider account of playing under Jack Charlton, Jim McLoughlin and Johnny King as well as Ferguson and KeeganThe story of his spells playing for Bohemians, Shamrock Rovers, Tranmere Rovers and the Republic of IrelandWhat day-to-day life in football was like for a player in the 1980s, before the game was flooded by moneyHow Liam fought back from a serious leg injury that threatened his career, and how he made a new life for himself, in and outside football, after his playing days were overA must-read for Manchester United and Newcastle fans, this is a story of 1980s and 90s football, of exhilarating highs but also crushing lows.
Not Even in Brazil
The rip-roaring story of one of the greatest teams in both Liverpool FC and British football history – a side whose superb style of play Sir Tom Finney believed couldn''t be bettered, ''not even in Brazil''.Under the stewardship of ''The King'' Kenny Dalglish, Liverpool strode to the league title with a side featuring such legends as John Barnes, Peter Beardsley and John Aldridge, playing a style of football never forgotten by those lucky enough to witness it.This riveting book features:An exciting and immersive account of the legendary 1987/88 Liverpool FC seasonFan recollections of that extraordinary season and teamSkilful storytelling centred around the matches that matteredDetailed descriptions of the season''s incredible games, glorious goals and brilliant players, all of whom remain in the hearts of the Kop to this dayA celebration and discussion of the brilliance of Barnes, Beardsley and AldridgeA homage to Kenny Dalglish''s masterful role in leading the sideEye-catching photos showcasing many major events from that famous seasonThis book charts the building of that magnificent side – a side that deserves its place, alongside Arsenal''s ''Invincibles'' and both Manchester treble-winners, as one of the greatest in English football history. A must-read for all Liverpool fans.
The Smell of Football II
The searingly honest and unputdownable sequel to the award-winning The Smell of Football, balancing laugh-out-loud moments with darker periods of difficult self-reflection.In this engrossing and moving memoir, Mick ‘Baz’ Rathbone picks up from where his highly acclaimed debut tome left off:We follow him from his shock departure from his role as head of medical at Everton in 2010, to finally finding the internal peace and self-worth he has searched for all his life, some ten years and ten teams later, on a paradise island in the CaribbeanHe takes us on a hilarious, yet thought-provoking journey through the international team’s setup via the biggest club in the world and many other famous football clubs along the waySkilfully told, in the same self-deprecating way as the original, there are great stories involving such football luminaries as David Moyes, Sir Alex Ferguson, Sir Bobby Charlton and the late, great Ray Clemence to name but a fewWith revealing insights into the world of professional football, Mick highlights how the game has changed since he left school in 1975, as a wide-eyed 16-year-old, to join his beloved hometown club, Birmingham CityAt its heart, this is a book about doubt and lack of direction and an ageing man searching for his rightful place at the football table, increasingly filled by younger and more academically qualified protagonists, fear of the future and the fear of growing old. Mick’s story will resonate with all football fans, and especially those of a certain age – from any walk of life – who are fighting to stay relevant.
The Smell of Football III
The third and final part of the highly acclaimed The Smell of Football trilogy, bringing to life the day-to-day running of a professional football club.Mick ‘Baz’ Rathbone concludes his riveting football memoir with a 100-day diary starting in the early 2024/25 season. Once again, he brings us a unique insight into the world of professional football, this time through his role as a physio:Written with humour and candour, the book demonstrates that incredibly fine line between winning and losing – the width of a goalpost or a referee’s decision – and the diametrically opposed emotions they bringTakes the reader on a roller-coaster ride of emotions from the mundane yet fascinating day-to-day happenings of the medical team at a famous old League Two club, to the utter despair of a relentless losing streak and the pressure that comes with itSee the internal world of a professional football club through the eyes of the physioLearn about Mick’s role and responsibility, and the pressure on him to provide the manager with the strongest team possible, week in and week out, as the demand for results increases exponentially across the seasonThis book is for diehard fans who support their team unconditionally. It will show them just how much the players and officials really do care, and just how painful and emotionally draining defeat is. It is an honest account that draws on the author’s incredible 50 years in professional sport.
Miracle in Bilbao
An under-the-skin chronicle of Tottenham Hotspur’s historic 2024/25 season – from a national press reporter who was there to witness every astonishing twist and turn. Perfect for any Spurs fan!By Tom Barclay, Tottenham Hotspur reporter for The Sun.Tottenham’s unforgettable 2024/25 season saw the north London club end their 17-year trophy drought despite the wheels coming off in their Premier League campaign. Barclay was there to witness it all and was one of the main reporters asking questions of Ange Postecoglou and his players throughout. This riveting book:Relives every major event from Postecoglou''s follow-up term in charge at Spurs, where the Australian kept up his proud record of second-season silverware with Europa League glory in Bilbao – and was still sacked anywayGoes behind the scenes for all the key decisions made over transfers, tactics, injuries, team selections, protests, victory-parade speeches and more during a period unique in the club''s 143-year historyIncludes the views of all the key players, coaching staff and power-brokers involvedProvides fresh insight into the decisions that were made throughout the campaign, including on transfers and the tactical switch Ange Postecoglou employed to win the Europa LeagueFrom the mistakes made in pre-season, to a gruelling winter of discontent, to the European triumph that will live forever with players and fans alike, Miracle in Bilbao details every step of a Tottenham campaign like no other – and one that Spurs supporters will talk about for decades to come.
Bill McCracken, the Offside King
Bill McCracken, the Offside King is the first biography of a football pioneer and Newcastle United legend who forced a fundamental change to the rules of the game. Written by former Newcastle United official club historian Paul Joannou, this gripping book is a must-read for all Magpies fans and anyone interested in football history or nostalgia. Brought up in Belfast, Bill was a much-wanted talent at full-back and became a key figure in Newcastle’s great Edwardian line-up. Read how:McCracken was the most talked about player in the years before and after World War One as Newcastle United’s defensive master in a line-up at the very top of the game – his playing career spanned more than 20 yearsHe claimed notoriety for his perfect execution of the offside trap, a tactic which caused uproar on the terraces and was widely copied, earning him the nickname ‘the Offside King’Something of a rebel with a cause, the likeable, yet at times controversial Irishman fought a long-running feud with the Irish FA over paymentsLater he was a respected manager with Hull City, with whom he got within a whisker of the FA Cup final, before taking charge of Gateshead, Millwall and AldershotAfterwards, as a celebrated talent scout, he remained active in the game into his 90sBill’s fascinating career and huge influence on football are explored in detail in this superbly researched biography, published a century on from when ‘McCrackenism’ changed the face of football.















