ALCHEMY

- By Chris Hull -



Starting at Rock Bottom

The huge challenge facing Brian Clough in his first managerial job is made crystal clear in this well-researched book which is a joy to read.

Hartlepools United had often faced the prospect of re-election to the Football League when Cloughie took over in October 1965. Their training facilities were the local beaches and the ground was so dilapidated that buckets were needed to catch the rain leaking through the roof.

Interviews with former players give a valuable insight into how Clough – then the youngest manager in the Football League – went about tackling the mammoth task. 

His half-time instructions were usually kept to a minimum – a forward who strayed into his own half too often was warned that if he continued to cross the half-way line he would receive a fine.

Clough became a one-man fundraising machine, visiting social clubs and local businesses, to encourage donations to secure the club’s future.  

A match-by match account of the club’s fortunes is married with memories of notable events at the time, such as the launch of Michael Caine’s film ‘Alfie’ and the opening of George Best’s fashion boutique.

Clough’s partnership with former Middlesbrough team-mate Peter Taylor is carefully documented as they crafted a team from scant resources.

“Clough’s golden tongue and mind games had dovetailed with Taylor’s nous and Nottingham contacts to truly begin the process of alchemy,” writes Chris Hull, a Hartlepool fan and senior university lecturer.

As the club’s fortunes improved, a promising midfielder signed as an apprentice professional in 1966. Clough described it as the best thing to happen to the club since his arrival.

“I know this boy has real ability and there is no reason at all why he should not go right to the top,” Clough told the Northern Daily Mail.

The signing was John McGovern, who became his European Cup winning captain at Nottingham Forest 13 years later.

‘Alchemy’ is published by The History Press. RRP £20.00 (hardback).