The Emergence of Footballing Cultures

‘The Emergence of Football Cultures’ is a major contribution to the early history of association football in Manchester and across Britain. Forensically researched and brimming with detail about the Victorian pioneers who made the game, it deserves to be read by all those interested in football, the city of Manchester, and how mass spectator sport changed the urban way of life in the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries.’

Professor Tony Collins, De Montfort University

‘As a proud member of Manchester’s footballing community who has recently completed my own academic research, I value detailed analysis and interpretation of football. Gary James’ latest work uncovers the facts and stories of Manchester’s early footballing history and explains how football became a significant aspect of Mancunian life. He traces the pioneering clubs that paved the way for Manchester’s first trophy successes and explains, in a clear and engaging manner, how the sport took hold. Packed with information, evidence and entertaining stories, this book is a must for those interested in both Manchester and football.’

Vincent Kompany, Master of Business Administration and Manchester City captain

‘Gary James’ latest work on Manchester football is an essential study into the origins of the game and its development through to 1919, by which time the sport was crucial to Manchester society. As someone who cares passionately about providing educational opportunities that matter, I thoroughly recommend Gary’s book. It explains why football became Manchester’s number one passion and provides detail and evidence on how the modern day giants of United and City became established. This is a valuable work.’

Gary Neville, former Manchester United and England international and founder of University Academy 92