One of the issues Calvin explores in his most recent book State of Play is the need for more emotionally intelligent managers and coaches in football, as epitomised by England manager Gareth Southgate.

As enthralling and insightful as any fans of Mike’s previous books would expect

A grandstand view of the beautiful game . . . Calvin draws on his own frontline reporting as well as interviews with leading football figures to present an exhaustive portrait of the modern game.

Thought-provoking and well-wrought.

Michael Calvin has done the game a massive service with this broad ranging, hard-hitting and exceptionally well researched book and he has also written it in a beautiful, lucid prose style.

The most vivid, revealing insight into contemporary British football that you are ever likely to read.

Very few books about football are truly essential, but this is now one of them.

State Of Play is Mike Calvin’s finest work to date.

Essential reading for anyone with even a passing interest in football

Heartbreaking and funny, State Of Play is essential reading on many burning issues in the modern game.

For those of you missing your football fix, anything by Michael Calvin is worth a read – the hugely respected sports journalist writes eloquently about the modern game in page turner State of Play

Praise for No Hunger In Paradise: Another landmark work from Mike Calvin, who has taken us beyond the surface of football to show its true workings. Ground-breaking reportage with a heart and a conscience. A service to the game

Praise for Living on the Volcano: An eye-raising insight into the realities of life in the dugout

Praise for The Nowhere Men: A magnificent book, full of extraordinary characters and beautifully told