Dr. Phil Stevens

Legendary West Ham manager John Lyall, who sadly died in 2006, is remembered with affection as one of the all-time great football managers by former colleagues and football fans alike. Lyall was widely regarded as man of great integrity and is credited with laying down the foundations of the footballing beliefs and values of today’s West Ham United. This new in-depth biography documents Lyall’s football career from West Ham groundstaff boy in 1955, through his playing debut, injury, and eventual steps into coaching and management under the watchful eye of Ron Greenwood. A much-loved and respected figure at Upton Park, Lyall had a lasting influence on the club’s development and the team’s style of play and during his time in charge, West Ham twice won the FA Cup. Later, when Lyall took over at Ipswich Town, he led the club to promotion to the inaugural Premier League in 1991/92. John Lyall A Life in Football pays tribute to one of the most influential footballer managers of recent years and is a lasting legacy to a true gentleman and champion of the beautiful game.