Too Good to Be Forgotten is a footballing story viewed through the prism of three remarkable men: Brian Clough, Bobby Robson and Lawrie McMenemy.

The ten years from 1975 to 1985 was the last sustained period in which the hegemony of the major big-city football clubs in England was challenged and, at times, usurped. These were days when young fans could follow their dreams, a time when your local side might - just might - become a contender on the global stage.

The book revisits that golden ten-year span and examines the idiosyncrasies and striking similarities in these three wise men of the North East - three of the greatest-ever English football managers - and how, in the form of three unfashionable, provincial clubs, they made the ordinary become extraordinary. Not only did they deliver success on the pitch but a sense of pride in the communities of the towns and cities they put on the map. In doing so, they offered lessons in management and leadership that still resonate today.

About the Author

Ben Dobson worked with athletes in sport for 32 years and has been a compulsive sports fan for almost half a century. His sports writing has appeared in The Cricketer and other sports outlets. Ben's first book, Chasing Rainbows, is a sideways look at the purgatory which is the lot of the English sports follower, based on his own life experience, asking why well-adjusted adults should let sport take over their lives.

Reviews

"The achievements of the three managers at Nottingham Forest, Ipswich Town and Southampton respectively were outstanding, and gave their supporters, including the author, some of the greatest memories of their lives. And it's this feeling that Dobson taps into so well. This is an excellent read for anyone craving the days when clubs such as these could rise to challenge the establishment, not just for one season, but for many years, and how an eye for signing the right hidden gem, getting the best from those considered past their best, and a loyalty to their fanbase, were still possible."

* On Magazine *

"Dobson skilfully weaves together the stories of Clough, Robson, and McMenemy, shedding light on their idiosyncrasies, shared values, and extraordinary achievements. He masterfully intertwines these three narratives, highlighting their shared commitment to their clubs and communities. The prose is engaging, and Dobson's deep admiration for these footballing legends shines through every page. In 256 pages, Dobson encapsulates the essence of an unforgettable decade. His meticulous research and storytelling prowess make Too Good To Be Forgotten a must-read for football enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone seeking inspiration from extraordinary lives."

* Goodreads *

"Three of English football's most influential managers are commemorated in Too Good to Be Forgotten: Three Wise Men from Football's Golden Era, a new book focused on the golden decade from 1975 to 1985... author Ben Dobson has put together an absorbing narrative of their rise and draws a number of parallels between them... Dobson shines a new light by interviewing Rodrigues, Channon, Steve Williams, Paul Bennett and Hughie Fisher of Southampton, Forest's Tony Woodcock and John McGovern and Bryan Hamilton, Allan Hunter, Russell Osman and John Wark of Ipswich."

* Sports Journalists' Association *



Book Information
ISBN 9781801506854
Author Ben Dobson
Format Hardback
Page Count 256
Imprint Pitch Publishing Ltd
Publisher Pitch Publishing Ltd