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Football's Champions of Change

Damian Johnson, Author

Troy Townsend,

Brian Deane,

Laura Greenan, Illustrator

Imprint: Welbeck Children's Books

Publication date: September 14, 2023

Category: Football / soccer (Children's / Teenage)

ISBN: 9781783129423

This inspirational book charts the history of the anti-racism movement in English football and beyond, shining a light on both the divisive and unifying power of the beautiful game.

Discover the star footballers, which include the likes of Arthur Wharton, Walter Tull and Clyde Best from the early days, to the modern greats such as Raheem Sterling, Marcus Rashford and Bukayo Saka who have faced and fought racial bigotry on the pitch and helped advance the cause. There are also commentaries and insights from coaches, referees as well as grassroots activists who are prominent voices in the mainstream and
social media. Features inspiring vox pops from young, modern-day aspiring players and fans from different ethnic backgrounds, explaining their experiences and their own battle (and triumphs) to be treated equally on the pitch and in society.

Damian Johnson

Damian Johnson is a familiar face and voice of football on TV, both in the UK and overseas. He has worked for top broadcasters including BBC Sport, Radio Five Live, BT Sport and the English Premier League. He has interviewed all the major players and managers and reported from three World Cups, three European Championships and six Africa Cup of Nations tournaments. Football’s Champions of Change is his first book.

Laura Greenan

Laura Greenan is a freelance illustrator based in London. In another life she worked for over 10 years as a graphic designer before leaving to become her own boss, and to indulge her more colourful side! She works digitally, both in vectors and on the iPad, to create vibrant, maximalist, and most importantly, fun, pop art style illustrations.