Following the launch of Above Head Height, a chronicle of James’ years of playing football before, during and after a series of serious addictions, the man himself spoke to Goal to discuss some of the stand-out moments of his first book, which is flying off the shelves already.
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As James himself points out, a book focused on the non-career of somebody who never came close to making a living from football would not normally make for a very appealing read. But his mixture of anecdotes from his time as editor of magazines Loaded, which he founded, and GQ, as well as stories of mid-90s naughtiness at top Premier League clubs, is proving a success.
There is, however, much more to it than the often hilarious memories of playing football - or having your kit stolen while you do.
Above Head Height kicks off with a chapter dedicated to James’ long-time friend James Kyllo, who died in 2015. It offers insight into the bonds that can be forged between footballers of all abilities when they play together on a regular basis - but know little of each other beyond their on-pitch successes and failures.
It was James’ article ‘Goodbye, my five-a-side friend. I won’t forget our strange and special bond’, published in the Telegraph just over a year ago, which kick-started the process of writing Above Head Height.
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James talked us through the highs and lows of the book, and also provides one sure-fire tip for footballers at all levels which is guaranteed to boost performance.
So don’t miss our exclusive chat, set against a very amateur showdown between Goal and Opta members of staff in the heart of Leeds, where James’ love affair with the beautiful game began.
