We’ve read and reviewed dozens and dozens of books about the English Premier League. But Jim White’s Premier League: A History in 10 Matches is a bit different and consequently, better as a result.
White is a talented and renowned sportswriter and his quality shines through in this book. While choosing a certain number of matches to highlight is not a novel idea, White gives the approach a new spin. His ten choices are solid ones to say the least and he recalls each in superb detail.
It all starts with the beginning of the Premier League and finishes with the 2013/14 season. This is an updated version that has a lot more than a discussion of ten matches. Tables, stats, interesting facts and tidbits, and incredible photos are the icing on the cake so to speak. A great book gets even better with the update.
I guess the biggest takeaway from this great title is how much the Premier League has grown, transforming English football and the global game in the process. What started out as a way to save the game in England has literally changed everything related to the beautiful game. The EPL is known in every corner of the world thanks to massive broadcast deals and creative branding by teams and the league itself. The success of the EPL has caused other leagues to step up their game as well, giving La Liga and the Bundesliga greater worldwide appeal.
This book captures the best from the history of the Premier League and is a must read for absolutely any football fan.
