THE REAL FOOTBALL: A SKETCH OF THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE ASSOCIATION GAME

One of the key early books on the game, charting the rise of football from the 14th century, through the Public Schools, to the formation of the Football Association in 1863. One of the high notes of football literature.

First Edition. 8vo. [vi] + 215pp. Portrait frontis. (C.W. Alcock), 7 plates. Rebound in half green goatskin over marbled boards, gilt lettering to spine, raised bands, gilt devices. New end-papers, occasional spotting to early and later pages. A very impressive copy. On the fly-leaf is the ownership inscription 'Allan MacLean, President Vale of Leven F.C. From 1895 to June 1902'.

"Certain of the more substantial early works stand out as essential for any serious student of the game's history. This is one such work" - Seddon (A19)