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The Football Ramble
Downloaded over ten million times a year the Football Ramble podcast has established itself as the essential, independent voice of football punditry. The weekly podcast has resonated with supporters around the world and their sold-out live shows have been a massive hit. This book is a collaboration from all four presenters and will tackle the real issues from fans you won't see or hear on Sky Sports, or anywhere else for that matter. From the weird and wonderful, from the Alan Pardew to the Kevin Keegan, the Ramble has it covered. Putting all aspects of the game under the microscope, this book is a timely reminder of why we just can't take our minds off football.
384 pages, Hardcover
First published October 20, 2016
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128 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
March 20, 2018
Shocking twist right at the start - "football" is actually soccer. GASP
Nothing but love for these lads.
Nothing but love for these lads.
November 15, 2016
Great fun and loads of laughs! Anyone who's a fan of the Football Ramble podcast will have a great time with this one. I felt like Jim Campbell's sections were the funniest and most coherent but each contributor had something to offer. I think some of the terms and people mentioned may be a bit too esoteric and obscure for people who don't know much about football though. All-in-all, a great read that had me laughing out loud from start to finish.
December 16, 2018
I mean if I was 12 it'd probably be my favourite book.
December 8, 2016
I am a football fan, I like all football, I hate the circus around football, I watch a half turn off the pundits and then tune in for the 2nd half and then I switch off, if they could come up with a version that turns the commentators off that'd be even better, I dont listen to any of the serious football podcasts as any time I do, I marvel at how English pundits can be so so so so ignorant of non premier league football, just read any paper about Joe Hart's transfer to Torino and behold the amount of nonsense.
I do however listen religiously to two podcasts about the beautiful game one is the light hearted but superb Guardian football weekly and the other is the Football Ramble, presented by 4 blokes who know their football, are not ignorant and their off the cuff tangential humour is very very funny but they can also get down to the more serious parts of the sport. The book is an interesting if slight look at the whole game, some bits funny, some bits informative my problem with it is that on the audio version the bits narrated by Pete Donaldson are poor because his narration is too rushed, it feels like he's reading very very quickly, whilst Luke and Jim read their sections naturally and pause at the appropriate times. I wish I'd read the actual book instead of listening because I do feel the book as read would have been better. All in all I hope they write another one in the future and maybe only have one narrator on the audio version.
I do however listen religiously to two podcasts about the beautiful game one is the light hearted but superb Guardian football weekly and the other is the Football Ramble, presented by 4 blokes who know their football, are not ignorant and their off the cuff tangential humour is very very funny but they can also get down to the more serious parts of the sport. The book is an interesting if slight look at the whole game, some bits funny, some bits informative my problem with it is that on the audio version the bits narrated by Pete Donaldson are poor because his narration is too rushed, it feels like he's reading very very quickly, whilst Luke and Jim read their sections naturally and pause at the appropriate times. I wish I'd read the actual book instead of listening because I do feel the book as read would have been better. All in all I hope they write another one in the future and maybe only have one narrator on the audio version.
November 20, 2016
What a load of Wankdorf.
August 17, 2019
I used to be a fan of the podcast, listening to all of the back catalogue until about February this year, by which point I thought it had grown tired and I was listening out of habit, rather than looking forward to it. I thought a book written 3 years ago might have brought on nostalgia, instead it reminded me why I don't really listen any more.
The main reason I didn't enjoy it was that it was essentially written from memory. I'm sure that the details of past matches were researched and the details fact checked but too many chapters descended into lists of 'Things I do/don't like'. Lists are a lazy option, which is why rubbish websites post them ad nauseum and the irony of Luke Moore moaning about ex-footballers not doing their research for TV before a list of pundit types was not lost on this reader. Not all of it was like this, but it turns out I don't share the written sense of humour of either Jim or Pete so those parts didn't really save it.
Fundamentally I'm not sure who this was for. People who are into football will know most of this stuff, and while they may agree with it, it doesn't really offer anything new. Proffering your take on the weekend football works when it's fresh in the memory in a podcast discussion, short descriptions of the famous Battle of Santiago and 1966 World Cup final or the observation that Mike Dean performs for the crowd don't really work on paper. And unlike more established writers like Barney Ronay, the three contributors didn't cover it amusingly or originally.
That said, the referee fitness standards section was interesting (notably, this was actually quite different in tone) and it was at least easy to read and get through quickly. But each chapter was a list, or the sort of subject that would work as a preamble to another, deeper topic, and too generic to bring a fresh outlook on the sport. In Ramble speak, the book wasn't a mugging, and at least Pete and Jim could make their point without Luke interrupting them, but it wasn't great either.
The main reason I didn't enjoy it was that it was essentially written from memory. I'm sure that the details of past matches were researched and the details fact checked but too many chapters descended into lists of 'Things I do/don't like'. Lists are a lazy option, which is why rubbish websites post them ad nauseum and the irony of Luke Moore moaning about ex-footballers not doing their research for TV before a list of pundit types was not lost on this reader. Not all of it was like this, but it turns out I don't share the written sense of humour of either Jim or Pete so those parts didn't really save it.
Fundamentally I'm not sure who this was for. People who are into football will know most of this stuff, and while they may agree with it, it doesn't really offer anything new. Proffering your take on the weekend football works when it's fresh in the memory in a podcast discussion, short descriptions of the famous Battle of Santiago and 1966 World Cup final or the observation that Mike Dean performs for the crowd don't really work on paper. And unlike more established writers like Barney Ronay, the three contributors didn't cover it amusingly or originally.
That said, the referee fitness standards section was interesting (notably, this was actually quite different in tone) and it was at least easy to read and get through quickly. But each chapter was a list, or the sort of subject that would work as a preamble to another, deeper topic, and too generic to bring a fresh outlook on the sport. In Ramble speak, the book wasn't a mugging, and at least Pete and Jim could make their point without Luke interrupting them, but it wasn't great either.
September 18, 2017
I strolled into a book store to pick up a book that I had to read for an assignment. As that book doesn't belong to the genre I read , I walked towards my favorite section of any book store I.e. Sports.
There were plethora of books that I could have picked (some even in my to read list) but my eyes fell on this oddly titled book 'The Football Ramble'
Having no idea about the four authors and their world-famous Podcast I had a blank slate. Somehow the blurb was tempting enough to make me part ways with some more cash.
I was sucked into the world of football (not that I haven't been already) from chapter one. It starts with the history of football. From history the authors stitch a very compelling narrative of the game covering almost every aspect of The Beautiful Game . The Media , Clubs , Stadiums , Referees , International Football and Grassroots football are all described in length with of course a touch of humor.
Of the four on the podcast , Jim Campbell,Luke Aaron Moore and Pete Donaldson have authored the majority of the book. Work of Jim and Luke stole my heart. They are the better authors of the book hands down.
As a first attempt the book turns out to be as fine as Ronaldo's penalties or Messi's dribble. Any die hard football fan would connect to the book . A must read !
There were plethora of books that I could have picked (some even in my to read list) but my eyes fell on this oddly titled book 'The Football Ramble'
Having no idea about the four authors and their world-famous Podcast I had a blank slate. Somehow the blurb was tempting enough to make me part ways with some more cash.
I was sucked into the world of football (not that I haven't been already) from chapter one. It starts with the history of football. From history the authors stitch a very compelling narrative of the game covering almost every aspect of The Beautiful Game . The Media , Clubs , Stadiums , Referees , International Football and Grassroots football are all described in length with of course a touch of humor.
Of the four on the podcast , Jim Campbell,Luke Aaron Moore and Pete Donaldson have authored the majority of the book. Work of Jim and Luke stole my heart. They are the better authors of the book hands down.
As a first attempt the book turns out to be as fine as Ronaldo's penalties or Messi's dribble. Any die hard football fan would connect to the book . A must read !
February 7, 2018
The book comes out of the amazing football podcast, The Football Ramble. Divided into chapters that deal with specific parts of the game, the text is reminiscent of the podcast, with added seriousness and scholarship. It took me less than two days to finish this book. The writers are truly passionate about football and it shows through in their work.
May 12, 2021
With the recent changes to the podcast itself (I know.... here we go... another asshole), it was nice to return to the classic Ramble Four.
Would have loved reading a few chapters in Marcus’ voice, but Jim, Pete, and Luke all did an exceptional job.
This book was a lot of fun, and really captured the true Ramble essence.
Would have loved reading a few chapters in Marcus’ voice, but Jim, Pete, and Luke all did an exceptional job.
This book was a lot of fun, and really captured the true Ramble essence.
September 8, 2018
So jealous that these guys get to do this for a living. The Football Ramble team makes every football fan think “my mates and I could do that” before humbly accepting that they’re nowhere near as insightful or funny.
November 28, 2016
A charming love letter to soccer with some interesting tidbits on the game and its history. If you're a fan of the ramble (as I am) you won't want to miss this.
January 4, 2019
Was a little disappointed to not see my favorite grassroots shout of "On your bike", however it was an entertaining read for those who enjoy the podcast
July 18, 2021
I'm already a regular follower of the podcast.. But the book was one of the most enjoyable books I've read in years.
December 7, 2021
One and a half stars
November 7, 2023
Funny take on my favourite sport a different perspective by each writer.
August 21, 2025
Good book but reading it in 2025 makes it feel slightly dated. Still recommended
January 23, 2017
First off, let me preface this review by saying I've listened to this podcast for almost 7 years now. The Football Ramble guys talk about the game in the way you and your friends might-just bullshitting as you watch the ridiculous theater that is the beautiful game. Every week, these guys offer an alternative, humorous sense through which to view the sport.
The allure of the podcast is its spontaneity and running jokes. This book, while funny in parts, fails to capture the freewheeling spirit of the podcast. The writing in parts is painfully formulaic (every paragraph ends in a punchline) or unintelligible (some of Pete's obscure references and ramblings). If you know the podcast, you'll already be familiar with a lot of the tropes (El Diego's antics, Kevin Keegan's follies, England's failings, etc.) So, while still amusing, quite a bit of this book is trod-upon territory for the regular listener.
This book shines most, as others have mentioned, in Luke's chapter about grassroots football. The book is divided up similarly into chapters covering other areas of the game: players, managers, club football, international football, etc. The division makes this great "toilet reading" and offers up endless fodder for your football YouTube rabbit hole.
In the end, the Football Ramble book is a kind of "fan service" for listeners of the podcast and ultimately an optimistic view of the game from some of its most lovable enthusiasts.
The allure of the podcast is its spontaneity and running jokes. This book, while funny in parts, fails to capture the freewheeling spirit of the podcast. The writing in parts is painfully formulaic (every paragraph ends in a punchline) or unintelligible (some of Pete's obscure references and ramblings). If you know the podcast, you'll already be familiar with a lot of the tropes (El Diego's antics, Kevin Keegan's follies, England's failings, etc.) So, while still amusing, quite a bit of this book is trod-upon territory for the regular listener.
This book shines most, as others have mentioned, in Luke's chapter about grassroots football. The book is divided up similarly into chapters covering other areas of the game: players, managers, club football, international football, etc. The division makes this great "toilet reading" and offers up endless fodder for your football YouTube rabbit hole.
In the end, the Football Ramble book is a kind of "fan service" for listeners of the podcast and ultimately an optimistic view of the game from some of its most lovable enthusiasts.
February 12, 2017
This was fun! I don't know how it will age compared to other books about soccer, but I really enjoyed it. Instead of being just a book of their favorite soccer moments, it was really well-researched and enlightening (I especially enjoyed the parts about referee fitness, South American league playoffs, and how stadiums have (or have not) been adapted for handicapped fans).
But it was also really funny and there were a lot of jokes that I know no one will get but I loved (the refernces to Mourinho as both the spooky evil clown haunting Juan Mata AND as a T-1000 tracking Guardiola through Europe made me laugh a lot).
But it was also really funny and there were a lot of jokes that I know no one will get but I loved (the refernces to Mourinho as both the spooky evil clown haunting Juan Mata AND as a T-1000 tracking Guardiola through Europe made me laugh a lot).
November 12, 2016
I love the Ramble, the best podcast on any subject. When I saw they had a book, I thought it might be a goof filled with pictures and filler. But this is a proper book about the game we love. It is made up of 10 chapters: history, media, managers, fans, referees, players, club football, stadiums, international football, and grassroots football.
This book might not appeal to anybody who is not a fan of the show...there are a lot of inside jokes that might fly over the heads of anybody who has not listened. And there are many British-isms that went right over me. But I loved it anyway.
This book might not appeal to anybody who is not a fan of the show...there are a lot of inside jokes that might fly over the heads of anybody who has not listened. And there are many British-isms that went right over me. But I loved it anyway.
December 19, 2016
I've been an avid listener to the Football Ramble podcast for several years now, so there is some bias in my rating. That being said, I think the Ramblers do an excellent job encapsulating the culture of football, even if it leans heavily on the British experience of the game. Some references and antics may translate better to those who have listened to them before, but I think this is a great introduction to the world of the Football Ramble. Great stuff!
December 9, 2016
A book full of funny remarks about the common world of football, its players, coaches, matches and situations that most fans have (at least should have) given some thoughts to. A book any fans ought to read. A fast tempered read with heaps of laughs as it simultaneously gives you an insight of football history in a way you never heard before.
February 7, 2017
This made me laugh out loud in places, of course Pete makes no sense in his chapters but that's why we like him. This is more about the soap opera around football than a strictly sensible football book. If you like the football ramble, you'll like this.
This might as well count as my read harder sport book, though it won't be the only sport book I read.
This might as well count as my read harder sport book, though it won't be the only sport book I read.
February 7, 2017
Lacking the zeal of the podcast and covering largely familiar ground. The best work comes at the end when the authors discuss the Sunday League scene. The books is much more interesting when discussing the personal.
December 25, 2016
The best football book I have read written by the best sports podcasters on the planet. Standout topics include grassroots football and the World Cup. A must for any football fan!
May 20, 2018
I don't think a book has ever actually made me laugh out loud before. The Football Ramble did.. on multiple occasions. As warm and endearing as the podcast!
January 14, 2020
Love these guys. Been a listener since they started. Support these fellas. Buy the book!
April 21, 2017
With no credit granted to the friend who introduced me to the Ramble (only recently, in time for Euro 2016), I can say that there are few pleasures in my life greater than being talked at endlessly about soccer (yes, soccer). This book is true to the tone of the podcast (kudos to the editors), and exudes that same charm. For anyone whose mind is frequently occupied by soccer (yes, soccer), this is a pleasant escape and generally flawless in its execution save for a terrible pun about the "FA Lamp" that could easily have been redlined to no one's detriment.
March 21, 2019
Get the book and keep listening to the podcasts, period.
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews