What Was Football Like in the 1980s? provides a fascinating and insightful perspective on the game in a decade when football faced major challenges on and off the field. The author's own memories and experiences are augmented by a wealth of research to bring you a compelling account of the clubs, players, managers, referees, grounds, crowds and competitions that defined '80s football. The book highlights the Hillsborough, Heysel and Bradford tragedies, along with the increasingly commercialised aspects of the game and the evolution of televised football. The scourge of hooliganism - which reached its height in the 1980s - is brought to the fore. What Was Football Like in the 1980s? is an enthralling and illuminating account of a truly remarkable decade for the beautiful game, penned by a respected football author. How different was the sport 30 to 40 years ago? Richard Crooks gives you the answer, leaving no stone unturned.

About the Author

Richard Crooks has written two critically acclaimed books on football in the 1960s and 1970s, Grandad, What Was Football Like in the 1960s?/1970s? as well as his 2018 tome Wednesday v United: The Sheffield Derby. Taking a keen interest in all things football, he has written for newspapers, football magazines and club programmes about the game he loves as well as appearing on television and national radio. He lives in Hertfordshire.

Reviews

"Thanks for whisking me back to the 1980s with this new book. I'd forgotten so much of it ! A nostalgic and intensely thought-provoking reminder. Exhaustively researched and a great read."

-- Alan Biggs * Talksport football reporter and Sheffield Live host *

"Get the book it really is a fascinating read."

-- Steve White * BBC Radio Sheffield *

"Throughout there is a recollection of nuggets from the decade - the government's failed membership scheme, the television blackout... the book allows the reader to reflect on thinking from another age."

* TheSubstantive.com *

"For a child of the 90s and early 2000s, this is very educational."

-- Raf Diallo * Sports Journalist, RTE *

"Fabulous book packed with stories of how the game was changing at a national and international level coupled with anecdotes."

* My Kind of Town magazine *

"A must for all soccer fans."

-- Keith Hackett * ex-FIFA referee *



Book Information
ISBN 9781785315534
Author Richard Crooks
Format Paperback
Page Count 288
Imprint Pitch Publishing Ltd
Publisher Pitch Publishing Ltd
Weight(grams) 316g