Alan Ball: The Man in White Boots: The biography of the youngest 1966 World Cup Hero

Alan Ball, a former England captain and one of the most revered players in the history of four clubs, was a prodigy at Blackpool, the youngest hero of 1966, a Championship winner at Everton, a British-record signing for the second time at Arsenal, and a veteran schemer for Southampton. He was told he was too small to succeed in the game, but his years as a manager were mostly of relegation and promotion battles. He died aged 61 after suffering a heart attack during a garden blaze. Alan Ball: The Man in White Boots is the definitive study of one of English football's most enduring figures.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 336 pages
\n Publication date: 18 October 2018
\n Publisher: Hodder & Stoughton
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Alan Ball, a remarkable footballer, achieved the remarkable feat of winning the World Cup at the age of 21 and concluded a two-decade career as one of the most revered players in the history of four clubs. Hailing from Blackpool, he emerged as the youngest hero of the 1966 World Cup, followed by triumphs in the Championship with Everton and a British-record signing for Arsenal. Additionally, he served as a veteran schemer for Southampton. Despite being initially deemed too small to succeed in the game, Ball's career trajectory defied expectations.

However, his years as a manager were marked by a mix of relegation and promotion battles, both successful and unsuccessful. He tirelessly pursued his goal of creating winners in his own image and emulating the achievements of his playing days. Tragically, Ball's life was already touched by personal tragedies, including the car crash that claimed the life of his father and the loss of his beloved wife, Lesley, to cancer. He passed away at the age of 61 after suffering a heart attack during a garden blaze.

A decade after his passing, Alan Ball: The Man in White Boots emerges as the definitive study of one of English football's most enduring figures. Drawing on extensive interviews with family, friends, and colleagues, including Jimmy Armfield, Sir Geoff Hurst, George Cohen, Gordon Banks, Joe Royle, Mick Channon, Lawrie McMenemy, Francis Lee, George Graham, Frank McLintock, Matthew Le Tissier, and many more, this book provides a comprehensive exploration of Ball's life and career. It sheds light on his achievements on the field, his managerial successes and challenges, and his enduring impact on the game.

Ball's journey from a humble upbringing in Blackpool to becoming a global football icon is a testament to his talent, determination, and resilience. His achievements as a player, including his role in England's 1966 World Cup victory, solidified his place in football history. As a manager, he demonstrated his ability to adapt and succeed in different environments, leading teams to success in the Premier League and beyond.

However, Ball's life was not without its challenges. He faced setbacks and disappointments, including relegation battles and struggles to produce consistent results. Despite these obstacles, he remained committed to his profession and his vision of creating winners. His passion for the game and his commitment to his players were evident in everything he did.

Alan Ball's legacy extends beyond his football career. He was a respected figure in the football community, known for his honesty, integrity, and sense of humor. He was also a trailblazer in fashion, popularizing the flat-cap as a stylish accessory on the pitch.

In conclusion, Alan Ball's life and career are a testament to the power of perseverance, determination, and talent. His journey from a small town in England to the pinnacle of football is a story that inspires and captivates. Through his achievements on the field, his managerial prowess, and his enduring impact on the game, Ball remains a beloved figure in English football. Alan Ball: The Man in White Boots is a definitive study of one of the sport's most iconic figures, providing a deep insight into his life, career, and legacy.

\n Weight: 264g\n
Dimension: 176 x 123 x 22 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781473660373\n \n