Simmo by Paul Simpson

Simmo by Paul Simpson

Simmo: A Family's Life in the Beautiful Game tells the remarkable story of Paul Simpson's four decades in football. Beginning with a career-defining decision to turn down the opportunity to work with Sir Bobby Robson, Simpson nevertheless forged an impressive playing career that spanned 808 senior appearances and took him to clubs including Manchester City, Derby County, Wolverhampton Wanderers, Blackpool and Carlisle United.

Yet playing was only the first chapter. As a manager, Simpson discovered a very different side of football, where boardroom politics, player power, dressing-room disputes and impossible expectations created challenges every bit as demanding as those faced on the pitch. Through promotions, relegations, triumphs and disappointments, he experienced every emotion the game could offer.

Alongside his football achievements, including leading England's Under-20s to World Cup glory, Simpson also faced his toughest battle away from the game after being diagnosed with cancer. Honest, reflective and often surprising, this is the story of a football life lived to the full and the family, friends and team-mates who helped make it possible.

Paul has collaborated with Andy Hall, an experienced author, journalist and former football media officer. His previous books include Nice One Skip, the biography of former Leeds United and Carlisle United favourite Peter McConnell, and On This Day, a history of Carlisle United. During a 24-year spell as Carlisle United's media officer, he won multiple Football League awards for content and editing, while also contributing extensively to regional and national newspapers. He has worked closely with Paul Simpson to tell the story of one of football's most fascinating careers.