Gary Lineker

This new biography – the first for 30 years – looks at the phenomenal career of Gary Lineker, and how he became one of England’s greatest ever goal-scorers and the BBC’s leading football presenter for more than two decades.

We follow Lineker’s career, from the school report which said, 'He concentrates too much on football’ to his phenomenal goalscoring record and development as a media personality. Through meticulous research and interviews with teammates and opponents, coaches, journalists and commentators, the book reveals the inside stories and backroom anecdotes from his early days at Leicester City; the big-money moves to Everton and Tottenham Hotspur; and the highs and lows of spells at Barcelona and Nagoya Grampus Eight in Japan. While playing for England, Lineker was also at the centre of memorable World Cup campaigns.

In 1986 his hat-trick turned round the nation’s fortunes and helped win him the tournament’s golden boot, before England were struck down by Maradona’s ‘Hand of God’. In 1990, his goals helped England reach an unforgettable semi-final against West Germany, where his reaction to Gazza’s tears was truly iconic. His post-football career saw him become a consummate presenter on Match of the Day and other BBC Sports broadcasts.

Gary Lineker always played with a smile on his face and an assassin’s touch in front of goal, while his charm and playful humour won over millions on TV. This biography provides a fascinating insight into one of English football’s most popular characters.