The Mixer

The Story of Premier League Tactics, from Route One to False Nines

Michael Cox author

Format:Paperback

Publisher:HarperCollins Publishers

Published:18th Jul '24

Should be back in stock very soon

This paperback is available in another edition too:

The Mixer cover

This essential book explores the evolution of Premier League tactics over 25 years, highlighting key changes and influential managers throughout its history.

In The Mixer, football enthusiasts are invited to explore the evolution of tactics in the Premier League, marking a significant milestone in the competition's 25-year history. The book provides a comprehensive overview of how English football transitioned from a physical, aggressive style to a more nuanced and strategic approach. It highlights the pivotal changes that occurred in 1992, when the Premier League was established, coinciding with the groundbreaking abolition of the back-pass rule. This transformation not only altered the dynamics of the game but also paved the way for a more fast-paced and skillful style of play.

The narrative delves into the tactical innovations brought by various managers and teams throughout the years. From the direct style of Sir Alex Ferguson to Kevin Keegan's attacking philosophy at Newcastle, and José Mourinho's tactical pragmatism with Chelsea, The Mixer presents a rich tapestry of football history. It examines how foreign influences and evolving player roles have reshaped the game, enabling clubs to adopt diverse strategies that challenge traditional norms.

As the first book to deeply analyze the tactical journey of the Premier League, The Mixer stands out as an essential read for modern football fans. It combines entertaining anecdotes with expert insights, making it not only informative but also a joy to read. This book is a testament to the game's growth and the intricate strategies that define contemporary football.

‘A compelling examination of the evolution of tactics in the Premier League. A fine read, and a powerful reminder of how much has changed.’ – Matthew Syed, The Times

‘Thanks to his meticulous research and his focus on strategy, Mr Cox finds a fresh perspective on a story that football fans will think they already knew’ – The Economist

‘The Mixer, by Michael Cox is a very unusual football writer in that he specialises in the game as it’s actually played, rather than the gossip or folklore around it. The Mixer is a tactical history of the English Premier League, with telling anecdotes on every page. It’s deeply informed and a pleasure to read.’ – Financial Times

‘If you’re in mourning that the footie season is over, this is for you. Delving deep into the beautiful game, it’s a look back at how the sport has changed over the years. Nostalgia will hit as you’ll remember iconic matches, too’ – The Sun

‘Intelligently written. Impressively researched. Fascinatingly addictive. Michael Cox is like a cartographer, remapping the landscape of the Premier League so we see the contours of it afresh. That’s some feat.’ – Duncan Hamilton, two-time winner of the William Hill Sports Book of the Year

‘Michael Cox provides brilliant tactical context to our favourite moments of Premier League nostalgia. The Mixer is as entertaining as a Wanchope dribble, with the authority of a Shearer finish and the panache of a Cantona celebration. And you may even learn to love Tony Pulis a little bit.’ – Ben Lyttleton, author of Twelve Yards: The Art & Psychology of the Perfect Penalty

ISBN: 9780008708313

Dimensions: 198mm x 129mm x 44mm

Weight: 460g

624 pages

Revised and updated edition