Read the latest Bobby Moore biography(Bobby Moore: The Man in Full) by Matt Dickinson and although I enjoyed it, he still comes off as a complete enigma. So in that sense, the writer didn't really achieve his objective, but nevertheless, there are plenty of great stories, particularly surrounding Moore's epic alcohol consumption, and utter failure as a businessman. For fans of footie in the 60s & 70s it's a great read.
"At the end of the drive the lawmen arrive...
I'll take my chance because luck is on my side or something...
Her name is Rio, she don't need to understand...
Oh Rio, Rio, hear them shout across the land..."
I would recommend:
- Stamping Grounds: Exploring Liechtenstein and its World Cup dream by Charlie Connelly.
- Calcio: a history of Italian football by John Foot
- San Isidro Football Club by Pino Cacucci. A novel about a social team in South America. Funny.
- Any book by Carlo Petrini. A now deceased former football player who admitted to cheating and doping and highlights the fact that these were common in Italy throughout the 70s and 80s. Petrini also wrote about Moggi and the recent Juventus match fixing system which Juve managed to implement through corruption and intimidation. Sadly I don't think his books are translated into English.
- Proud Man Walking by Claudio Ranieri. The coach's autobiography and an insight into his time at Chelsea.
- Any book by Carlo Petrini. A now deceased former football player who admitted to cheating and doping and highlights the fact that these were common in Italy throughout the 70s and 80s
To any fan of a certain age: no surprises here! Check out Derby County v Juventus(1973 European Cup semi)and Leeds v AC Milan(1973 CWC final)
"Self-defence is an art I cultivate"
I bought this book when it first came out. Still got it. Haven't read it for 20 years so will do so again. Some very interesting stories in it.
