From Reviled to Respected: Leeds United 1986/87, A supporter's journey

In July 1986, Leeds United is the most hated club in English football, and Neville Copley is a lazy, unemployed, uneducated dropout. With little hope of success, a disgraceful riot plunges the club and its supporters to new depths. Can this be a watershed moment for both? As results pick up, Neville rides along on his new optimism, looking for work, friends, and a personality. Leeds United is looking for promotion and cup glory, and Neville may lose his first-name term status at the job center.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 28 October 2022
Publisher: Troubador Publishing

July 1986. Leeds United, the most despised club in English football, finds itself engulfed in apathy and self-pity, narrowly avoiding relegation to the Third Division, much to the dismay of a hostile national media. Meanwhile, Neville Copley, a lazy, unemployed, and uneducated dropout, finds solace in his unwavering passion for the much-maligned football club that everyone else despises. Both individuals are subjected to equal contempt, and as the new football season approaches, there is little hope for success for either.

Neville begins his journey with a desperate attempt to evade meaningful employment, while his club seems determined to steer clear of success. A disgraceful riot plunges the club and its supporters into new depths, leaving Neville and the club at rock bottom. Can this moment serve as a turning point for both?

As results start to improve, Neville's newfound optimism propels him forward, prompting him to seek employment, make friends, and perhaps even discover a sense of self. Leeds United, on the other hand, are ambitiously aiming for promotion and cup glory. Can they climb the ranks of the division? Can Neville shed his "Neville" identity at the job center?

As the season reaches its climax, the tension intensifies, and the outcome remains uncertain. Who will emerge victorious? Will Leeds United achieve their goals, or will Neville find personal fulfillment amidst the chaos? Only time will tell the captivating story of these two individuals and the football club they love.

Dimension: 216 x 138 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781803132921