Instantly acquire all the knowledge you need to pass as an expert in the world of football with Bluffer's Guide to Football. Never again be found wanting when asked what Albert Camus said about the ‘beautiful’ game, why a rotation system is not to be confused with a revolving door management policy, and why an impressive collection of trophies is no way to describe the perma-tanned WAGs in the directors’ box. Bask in the admiration of your fellow football lovers as you pronounce confidently on the merits of English ‘pluck’ over German ‘efficiency’, and hold your own against the most insufferable of football know-it-alls. Above all, know how to avoid the game’s myriad clichés, and never be tempted to say ‘Football’s football; if that weren’t the case then it wouldn’t be the game that it is.’
Mark Mason's previous non-fiction includes The Importance of Being Trivial, Walk the Lines, The Bluffer's Guide To Football and The Bluffer's Guide To Bond. He is also the author of three novels, and has written for most British national newspapers (though never about anything too heavy), and magazines from The Spectator to Four Four Two. He lives in Sussex with his partner and son.
Parts of this book are absolutely hilarious. Useful for anyone wanting to learn football from an English perspective, even those who think they understand the offside rule perfectly. A mixture of football history, rules, and basic league and cup information.