The Stupid Footballer is Dead by Paul McVeigh is a unique title. It dives into a new topic, the psychology surrounding the beautiful game.
The book suggests that the game has changed and the footballer has changed with it. McVeigh breaks this argument down, showing how talent is just not enough and that the mental side of the game is paramount.
The best part of the book is McVeigh’s discussion of role models, players who have had great success because of their mental awareness. Some of the names (Paul Scholes, Fernando Torres, Lionel Messi) were not surprising, but others (Robert Green, Scott Parker, Grant Holt) may not have come to mind instantly. It is interesting to see how different players approach the game and how their attributes add up to a “winner’s psychology”.
The book is great for football fans who want to get in the head of professional footballers. Think of it as a sneak peak into the mind of an elite player. McVeigh had an impressive career of 16 years, playing for heavyweights like Tottenham, Luton, and Norwich. He also represented Northern Ireland on the international level.
I think the book could be an invaluable tool for players of all ages. It gives them the tools they need to reach the next level, to take their game up a notch.
I wouldn’t hesitate buying this book; it will be an enjoyable read for any footballer or sports fan. It covers an area of the game that not many tackle because it takes the right person to author a book like this. McVeigh’s successful career give him serious credentials and the ability to talk from experience.
