Missionaries - The Brits & Irishmen at the centre of Asia's footballing revolution

by Chris Foley

Tear gas, rubber bullets, amphibian pitch invaders and rioting supporters. Yes football in Asia can be a far cry from the heated dugouts, manicured pitches and glossy stadiums of Europe's elite. While the early pioneers of the beautiful game succeeded in spreading the sports across the globe, football's last frontier remains the East, where governmental investment has been ploughed rapidly improving fortunes of underachieving clubs and national sides in the 21st century. 'Missionaries' tells the story of the wander lusting Brits and Irishmen who've found themselves at the forefront of football's development across this fascinating region. Taking with them the lessons learned on our shores in a bid to bring sporting glory to their adopted nations. Meet the limerick man taking Cambodia by storm. The non league defender playing at the request of a petrostate's royal family. The university graduate who became the world's youngest national team manager (sort of). And many other unbelievable tales of footballing nomadism

208 pages, Paperback

Published January 1, 2022

Reviews

[Charlotte Patterson]

An amazing insight to the stories of individuals who have had an incredible impact on Asian Football. Be they young coaches from Ireland, non-league players making it abroad or consultancy/marketing the game. Foley details it all in this book. The description of the countries and places make you feel like you’re there and an overview to their history and culture, provides a much needed insight and understanding to put into perspective the trailblazers efforts. Thoroughly enjoyed it