The Reality of the Dream
My unique journey from non-league to the Premier League
Published on 29. June 2022
Book
Paperback/Softback
248 pages
978-1-8382329-4-8 (ISBN)
Description
Like most young boys, Malcolm Christie grew up dreaming of becoming a professional footballer. Rejected by his hometown club Peterborough United and working at Somerfield supermarket, playing amateur football at 19, Malcolm thought the moment had passed him by.
But dreams do come true. Just months after he was stacking shelves, Malcolm was playing for Derby County in the Premier League.
International honours and a big money move to Middlesbrough followed as Malcolm became one of English footballs brightest prospects until a succession of injuries led to a premature end of his promising football career.
The Reality of the Dream chronicles the amazing story of Malcolm Christie's journey to become the only person in history to go straight from non-league to scoring in the Premier League and representing his country without ever joining a professional academy.
Sad, funny and often emotional, Malcolm's unique tale provides a brutally honest insight into the reality of life as a footballer, an injured footballer and worse - a retired footballer.
But dreams do come true. Just months after he was stacking shelves, Malcolm was playing for Derby County in the Premier League.
International honours and a big money move to Middlesbrough followed as Malcolm became one of English footballs brightest prospects until a succession of injuries led to a premature end of his promising football career.
The Reality of the Dream chronicles the amazing story of Malcolm Christie's journey to become the only person in history to go straight from non-league to scoring in the Premier League and representing his country without ever joining a professional academy.
Sad, funny and often emotional, Malcolm's unique tale provides a brutally honest insight into the reality of life as a footballer, an injured footballer and worse - a retired footballer.
Reviews / Votes
"Malcolm's journey into professional football was unique, and he played with a hunger that comes from having experienced a life outside of football." Gareth Southgate; "Stacking shelves to the Premier League - it's a hell of a tale." Steve McClaren;More details
Language
English
Place of publication
United Kingdom
Dimensions
Height: 235 mm
Width: 155 mm
ISBN-13
978-1-8382329-4-8 (9781838232948)
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Schweitzer Classification