Steve Bloomer: The Story of Football's First Superstar

by Peter J. Seddon

What was it that made Steve Bloomer, the 'Destroying Angel' so special? A remarkable goalscoring record and a supreme ability count for much, but so do an enigmatic personality and incident-packed life that has never been fully explored - until now. In this marvellously entertaining story of his life, we accompany Bloomer on his dramatic rise from tough Black Country beginnings in 1874 to goalscoring feats straight out of Boy's Own Paper for Derby, Middlesbrough and England. His famous playing career shares the stage with remarkable episodes in Bloomer's life never before fully researched, including his sorrow and bravery through four years in a German prison camp. Also are his first tentative steps into the pioneering world of coaching in Germany. Holland and Spain, where his triumphant managerial spell brought glory to 'the Accrington Stanley of Spanish football' Then there are the twilight days as a scout, respected pundit and honorary old un at the Baseball Ground. Derby County still take to the field to the song 'Steve Bloomer's Watching'. He truly is a legend and his story is remarkable.

224 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1999

About the author

Peter J. Seddon was born in Derby in 1956 and was educated at Derby School and Leicester University, where he gained an Honours Degree in history.

He first watched Derby County at the age of eight and has followed their ups and downs ever since as a season ticket holder.

A member of the Association of Sports Historians and Football Statisticians, his interest in football extends to its very early days and his award-winning Football Compendium, published in 1995.

Reviews

[Kalwinder Dhindsa · Rating 5 out of 5]

My all-time greatest hero. What a Legend.

For many years now i have known about the legend of Steve Bloomer. When i was younger i used to walk past the main entrance of the Baseball Ground and read the plaque that used to commemorate his exploits. It is only after reading this book that i discovered that he used to attend a school down the road from me (Pear Tree School, corner of Pear Tree Street and Portland Street/clothing factory now) and amazingly he used to live on the same street as me. This book is a must read for all Derby's citizens that were born in the city and support Derby County F.C. I have even found myself walking up and down some streets looking out for numbers of old houses he and his family used to live in. It is a great read, even better for the fact that the places that are reffered to, time and time again are actual places in Derby that many people who live in the city will recognise. One of the greatest footballers that ever lived and he lived on my street. *smiles* Legend.

[Stephen · Rating 5 out of 5]

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[Paul Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely wonderful book, that tells the story of the amazing life and career of Steve Bloomer in great detail. A truly remarkable player in his time, also tells about his continued involvement in the game after his playing days were over. Derby County sure had a gem when Bloomer was among their ranks.