Born to Manage: The Autobiography

When football legend Sir Stanley Matthews described England’s 4-1 defeat of the Netherlands in Euro 96 as ‘the best England performance I have seen in years’, coach Terry Venables knew he had achieved what he had set out to do. It was his most thrilling experience in football, and a moment that brought the nation together. Football had truly come home, and Venables had plotted the route.

After more than 50 years at the top of the game, Venables has developed an unparalleled reputation as one of the most innovative coaches this country has ever produced. He recalls his early days as a player making his way in the Swinging Sixties of London, when showbiz and football first began to mix. But he was always destined for a career in management, and there soon followed a golden period of success. He reveals the secrets behind his methods that took him to FA Cup and La Liga triumphs, along the way becoming the founding father of the modern Barcelona.

For all the acclaim he received, there has also been controversy as well, and Venables relives that horrible period when he suddenly became front-page news. In the end, there was always the football to return to and the loyal support of his family. For anyone who wants to understand the story of English football, from the days of Alf Ramsey to Roy Hodgson today, this book is an essential read.