Author:Roger Hermiston
Don Revie and Brian Clough were born a brisk walk away from each other in Middlesbrough, in 1927 and 1935 respectively. They were brought up in a town ravaged by the Depression and went on to become highly successful professional footballers. Then, as young managers, they both took clubs languishing in the doldrums (Leeds United and Derby County) and moulded them into championship winners.
Despite the myriad similarities, these two sons of the Tees were as different in character as Richard Nixon and John F. Kennedy. A bitter rivalry developed between them, which in turn enlivened and then blighted English football in the 1960s and '70s.
In Clough and Revie, exclusive interviews with players, relatives and friends shed fresh light on these two intriguing characters. Part footballing chronicle, part social history, the book is a revelatory exploration of the rivalry between the two men. It brings a fresh perspective on their early years in the North-East, tells how they nearly became teammates and explains why the feud began and what its repercussions were.
Roger Hermiston is a thoughtful and skilful writer . . . the social history of Clough and Revie's early years is of most interest here
—— Metro LondonMeticulously researched
—— ShortlistThis is a terrific read. Roger Hermiston has an easy and mature style. His research looks meticulous yet is modestly displayed
—— When Saturday ComesEminently readable
—— Derby Evening TelegraphA gripping story about passionate, driven, extraordinary characters
—— Evening GazetteThis superbly researched effort from Roger Hermiston on Clough's rivalry with Don Revie makes compelling reading . . . fascinating stuff
—— Irish ExaminerSome sporting events go beyond hyperbole. For that reason it's useful to have a grounded and sober account of what took place, which Patrick Myler provides in Ring of Hate
—— Daily TelegraphThe fight action is outstanding, but Myler continues the story after 1938 when both men became close friends and their stars flew in opposite directions
—— Yorkshire Post[H]is adrenalin-charged enthusiasm... delivers a good ride... The social history is snappy and his almost religious quest for ultimate craftsmanship full of wit.
—— James Urquhart , Financial Times