A history of football in 100 objects - Gavin Mortimer

What does a turnip have in common with a pair of 500 sunglasses? They've both played a pivotal role in football history. Following on from Neil MacGregor's groundbreaking The History of the World in 100 Objects, Gavin Mortimer provides a quirky and unique take on the beautiful game told through its defining objects.A History of Football in 100 Objects begins on the momentous day in October 1863 when several men in frock coats formed the Football Association. Ever since, the sport has continually evolved - and created new ways to thrill and infuriate its billions of followers along the way. If you've ever wanted to know when footballers started to feign injury, why an old sock helped Pel become a global legend or how a draper's letter changed football, you'll find the answer in this fascinating history of invention, ingenuity, indiscipline - and sometimes inebriation.From the inaugural red card to a Buddhist shrine, each of the objects selected gives us an intimate glimpse of an unexpected truth behind footie mythology.

Gavin Mortimer is an award-winning writer and journalist.
Gavin has been writing about sport since 1996, and is currently the football correspondent for the Week. He also writes for the Sunday Telegraph,BBC History Magazine, and Rugby World. Born in North London, Gavin chose Barnet over Arsenal and Tottenham, a decision he continues to regret.

Written with wit, warmth and an incredible amount of research
Four Four Two

Beautiful ... tells the story of our national game through the often obscure things that have shaped it
Sun

Extremely clever, quirky, and deliciously funny
Gazette

A richly original account of the game's past, present and future
Morning Star - Mark Perryman

A quirky and unique take on the beautiful game
Yorkshire Post

Great fun
Bookseller