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Quotes at Quad
Applause filled the Sir John Hurt Cinema following an entertaining evening of Brian Clough memories at Derby Book Festival. The event, featuring Cloughie author Marcus Alton in conversation with former BBC sports presenter Colin Gibson, was held at Quad Derby (15th November, 2024).
Clough at Core
Around 50 people attended a charity evening of fantastic Brian Clough memories. Alongside compere Neil Kendrick, Cloughie author and historian Marcus Alton told behind-the-scenes Clough stories accompanied by archive gems. It was held at the Calverton Working Men's Club (Geordie Club) in Nottinghamshire (14th November, 2024) and supported the local CORE community charity.
Statue Story
November 2024 marks 16 years since the brilliant Brian Clough statue was unveiled in Nottingham by Mrs Clough. In a special Green Jumper pod, Marcus Alton talks about how he got the fundraising group together after receiving Barbara Clough's approval.
"Superb" Tribute Event
More than 100 people came along to our special charity event marking 20 years since Brian Clough left us with magical memories. Best-selling Cloughie author Marcus Alton shared behind-the-scenes stories and archive recordings in an entertaining and often emotional Q&A with host Neil Kendrick.
Marcus introduced exclusive recordings with Cloughie legends as well as a special message from Brian's son Simon. Among the audience comments were:
"That was superb, thanks very much."
"An excellent evening."
"A great trip down memory lane."
"A really enjoyable evening, thank you."
The event, held at the Lutterell Hall in West Bridgford, Nottingham, raised money for the homelessness charity The Friary and included an auction of memorabilia. Read more about our live Green Jumper events HERE. The Lutterell Hall event was previewed by Nottingham Local News and West Bridgford Wire.
Poignant Podcast
To mark 20 years since Brian Clough left us with magical memories, here's a special Green Jumper pod featuring fans from Nottingham, Derby and his hometown of Middlesbrough. The pod includes personal memories from Cloughie author and website editor Marcus Alton.
Special Memories
Details have been revealed about a special charity evening to mark 20 years since Cloughie left us with those fantastic memories. The event on 20th September 2024 will be held in West Bridgford, Nottingham, in support of the homelessness charity The Friary.
As well as archive recordings and a Q&A with Cloughie author Marcus Alton, there'll be a recorded message from Brian's son Simon. Tickets are just £5 and available from brianclough.com HERE. More details are explained below and here are preview articles on West Bridgford Wire and Notts Local News.
"It promises to be an emotional and unforgettable evening," said Marcus. "I'm looking forward to telling some behind-the-scenes stories in this special tribute to a remarkable man." The Chief Executive of The Friary, Ben Talbot, said:
“We really hope this event will be well supported in memory of a legendary figure who put Nottingham on the map. As a charity, we are grateful for the sponsorship of West Bridgford Colts FC to stage this tribute event and for all those people who are giving up their time to make it happen.”
There was also a special preview of the event on BBC Radio Nottingham, with a live interview on 'In The Game' presented by Arun Verma (17th Sept 2024). Arun interviewed author Marcus, Ben from The Friary and Andy Lowe from West Bridgford Colts.
Picture Perfect
A photographer who captured iconic images of Brian Clough says there was a mutual trust between them. John Sumpter was the official Nottingham Forest photographer for more than 40 years. He recalls great stories of working with Cloughie in the Green Jumper pod with Marcus Alton.
On one occasion, he was invited to travel back from Wembley on the team coach after another trophy success. "Get yourself on the bus," Cloughie ordered after John took special photos in the dressing room. "I sat behind Brian Clough on the team coach - and he told Albert the driver to put some Buddy Holly music on as we left Wembley."
The Lost Tapes @ Book Festivals
There's been fantastic audience feedback following two successful Brian Clough events at book festivals in Nottinghamshire.
The first was a sell-out Q&A at Lowdham Book Festival in June, with another wonderful turn-out for a multi-media show at Newark Book Festival on 13th July 2024.
At both events, best-selling Cloughie author Marcus Alton recalled fascinating and entertaining behind-the-scenes Brian Clough stories. He also signed copies of his latest book, 'Brian Clough The Lost Tapes,' which has received Five Star reviews on Amazon.
You can buy copies of Marcus' books, personally signed to you or as a gift, at our Cloughie shop which is supporting good causes.
Triumph & Tragedy
A former matchday ball boy has recalled how he received strict instructions - not to retrieve the ball near Cloughie's dug-out, because that was Brian's domain! Martin Underwood is one of the guests in this episode of the Green Jumper pod entitled 'Triumph & Tragedy' which also looks back at the Hillsborough disaster.
Cloughie fan Amanda Stanger recalls being at the FA Cup semi-final in 1989 and talks about the support group she has set-up for Nottingham Forest fans who were there that day. Separate from that tragic event, Amanda also recalls great Cloughie memories, including an amusing parking incident!
Gala Dinner
It's 18 years since a Gala Dinner was held at Nottingham Council House to raise money for the city's Cloughie's statue. It was attended by Cloughie's family, with Mrs Clough being presented with a special gift - a framed signed message from Sir Terry Wogan, whose radio show Brian regularly listened to on his way to the City Ground.
The guest speaker was Duncan McKenzie, while fellow former players John Robertson, John McGovern and John O'Hare also attended. The cast of the Cloughie tribute play came along, straight after that night's performance at the Playhouse.
The Gala Dinner, sponsored by Nottingham Forest chairman Nigel Doughty, raised £9,000 - taking the fund's total to £45,000. The small group of fundraisers smashed their target in 18 months, raising £70,000 in total.
CUP UPSET
Former Cloughie striker Nigel Jemson has described his devastation at being left out of Brian's 1991 FA Cup Final team.
Speaking on the Green Jumper pod, Jemson says he was in tears after learning he hadn't even made the subs' bench for the Wembley showdown with Spurs:
"What was even worse was that the Forest fans at Wembley didn't know I hadn't been picked and were wishing me well. They were asking for a repeat of the year before when I scored the winner in the Littlewoods Cup Final."
Jemson tells pod host Marcus Alton that if he, Brian Laws and Steve Hodge had started the match, Forest would probably have won the cup and then Cloughie could have retired. Instead, Spurs lifted the trophy after the ref failed to send Paul Gascoigne off for two horrendous challenges in the early stages of the match.
This fascinating chat also includes Jemson's reflections on the great times he had with Cloughie, including scoring the winning goal in the 1990 Littlewoods Cup Final. "It was a dream come true," says the former striker who also recalls the time Clough sent him flowers in hospital after a car crash during his spell at Sheffield Wednesday. "That was the kind of man he was - the fella was class," says Jemson.
CLOUGHIE EVENTS
More dates have been added to the Green Jumper tour. Cloughie author Marcus Alton will be making guest appearances at two book festivals in Nottinghamshire in the coming weeks.
Marcus hosts the Green Jumper podcast and will be recalling great Cloughie stories at the two events, each containing different material. He will be at Lowdham Book Festival for 'An Audience With...' and chatting to event host Neil Kendrick, plus playing archive audio, on Monday 24th June.
Marcus will be heading to Newark Book Festival on Saturday 13th July for a special presentation featuring archive recordings and the story behind his latest book, 'Brian Clough The Lost Tapes.'
The Lowdham event is now sold out. There are more details and ticket information HERE. Plus there's a news article about the festival appearances on the In Your Area website.
CROWN JEWELS
Former Nottingham Forest striker Nigel Jemson says the Miracle Manager was always full of surprises - including grabbing his crown jewels during a post-match TV interview. "It was my first interview on national television and the gaffer grabbed my privates," says Jemson, who recalls the light-hearted moment in the latest Green Jumper pod...
TOP TV PUNDIT
Brian Clough has been named as the all-time top football pundit (April 2024). The list compiled by Four Four Two puts Cloughie above the likes of 'Saint and Greaves,' Malcolm Allison and Jimmy Hill. Brian's former midfielder Roy Keane takes the No.2 spot. Read more here.
The Phone Call
Former Nottingham Forest striker Nigel Jemson has revealed how he thought he'd been pranked when Brian Clough phoned him about a move to the City Ground. Luckily, he agreed to join Cloughie the following day after the Miracle Manager told him, 'I'll see you at the City Ground at nine-o-clock tomorrow, don't be late.'
Jemson is the latest guest on the popular Green Jumper podcast (April 2024) and talks about life behind the scenes with Old Big 'Ead. He also smiles at being reminded that Cloughie said Jemson's head was as big as the gaffer's! Here's the trailer...
Green Jumper Event
Details have now been released about the latest event in the Green Jumper tour. There'll be classic Cloughie quotes and magical memories in this special evening, raising money for Maggie's Cancer Centre in Nottingham.
Best selling author Marcus Alton will be talking about his latest book, Brian Clough The Lost Tapes, and recalling many entertaining Cloughie stories in a Q&A at Ramsdale Park Golf Centre, Nottinghamshire on Thursday 9th May.
Decision Time
European Cup winner Ian Bowyer says it was the best decision he ever made when he agreed to stay with Cloughie and Nottingham Forest in 1975. A tribunal was held after Bowyer's contract came to end that year. He could have left the City Ground on a free transfer, but Brian agreed a deal to keep the talented midfielder, who went on to win a host of trophies.
"It was the best decision I ever made," says Bowyer in the latest Green Jumper pod. "We had some wonderful times." He also reveals how Clough left the tribunal wearing his famous green sweater and a pair of shorts. "A taxi driver saw him and shouted, 'Cloughie, have you lost your dug-out?' I don't think he was impressed."
Tribute Events
The Green Jumper pod is on tour in 2024. The first of a series of special events was held on Friday, 8th March in Nottingham. It included memories and tributes as part of a conversation and audience Q&A with Cloughie author Marcus Alton.
"It was a thoroughly enjoyable evening," was one of the audience comments, along with "A lovely combination of humour, tributes, stories and historic facts."
Marcus, who interviewed Brian several times and has written five books, was in conversation with event host Neil Kendrick. The first event of the tour, at the St George's Centre in the Netherfield area of Nottingham, heard Marcus recall great Cloughie stories and showcase his new book 'Brian Clough The Lost Tapes.'
Further events are being planned, with the next one expected to be held in May. More details to come.
A Clough Kiss
Legendary sports broadcaster Gary Newbon has recalled the moment Cloughie kissed him on the cheek on live TV. The encounter happened when Newbon interviewed Brian straight after a heavy defeat against Everton. Newbon recalls the moment in the latest Green Jumper pod.
"Brian had agreed to give me an interview no matter what happened in the match - win, lose or draw," says Gary. "He stood by his word, even though they lost 4-0. I was getting told by colleagues to wrap the interview up because of the tight deadline. Brian helped me by giving me a kiss on the cheek and then walking off."
Gary's new book, looking back at his career spanning 50 years, is out now. Here's the full podcast...
The Lost Tapes
A new book lifts the lid on a rare collection of recordings and interviews. 'Brian Clough The Lost Tapes' is written by best-selling Cloughie author Marcus Alton. It opens a treasure trove of brilliant Clough stories and quotes, many in print for the first time.
Part of the proceeds will help the types of good causes that Cloughie supported. It's Marcus' fifth book about Brian Clough - the previous four have all been Amazon best-sellers. "This has been another labour of love," says Marcus, "And I think it's the best yet."
Marcus has been interviewed about the book by Notts TV and the Retro Football Podcast, whose host Gary Cook said: "I really enjoyed the book. There are some excellent and new stories. You can never have enough Brian Clough stories."
Signed copies are available by ordering from our Clough Shop. Marcus can sign them with a personal message. He is pictured, below, with Notts TV presenter Al Booth. You can also read more about the book HERE.
"The Brian Clough Way"
Brian Rice says he will never forget Cloughie's unique management style. After Rice made his surprise debut at Anfield in September 1985, Clough gave the team four days off. He told them not to report for duty until their next match, away at Leicester City.
"I thought it was strange. In Scotland we did a lot of physical work in training. But here we had four days off. The lads said, 'Don't say anything, just turn-up on Sunday.'" Forest beat Leicester 3-0, with Rice on the scoresheet.
"He had his own unique way - the Brian Clough way - and it worked," Rice tells pod host Marcus Alton. It's one of many great Cloughie stories the former Scottish international recalls in this entertaining episode.
BRIAN'S BONUS
Former Scottish international Brian Rice has recalled Cloughie's unusual matchday bonus offered to his players before a Wembley final. When Stuart Pearce asked Clough what the financial incentive would be for the Simod Cup Final against Everton, the Miracle Manager replied: "Ten pounds and a box of chocolates."
"We (the players) just laughed when he said that," recalls Rice in the latest Green Jumper pod. "Then he said, 'And if you lose, you give me ten pounds and a box of chocolates.'" Needless to say, that's exactly what the players received after their cup final victory.
"It was crazy," says Rice. "But you just took it, because we were well looked after." You can hear more of Rice's wonderful Cloughie memories in this trailer for the forthcoming pod...
MURAL MAGIC
Brian Clough is featured in a giant mural created in Nottingham. The image was unveiled in October 2023 and depicts Cloughie alongside the former Notts County boss Jimmy Sirrel. Read more - and see the mural - HERE.
Dad's Influence
Nigel Clough says he still thinks of his dad's 'principles' as he continues his own successful managerial career. Having taken Mansfield Town to the last 16 of the League Cup - a trophy Brian became very familiar with - and edging closer to his dad's 1,453 matches as a manager, Nigel spoke to ITV's Dan Salisbury-Jones (October 2023).
Dan asked whether, despite having proven himself in his own right, there was ever a moment in which Nigel felt free of his father's influence.
"I don't think I'll ever be free of it now," replied the Stags boss. "It lessons a little bit but the memories are all still there and the principles are still there as well.
"The principles that he put in place don't change. You're still looking for the discipline on the football pitch and you're still looking for standards and certain things for the players, that sort of thing. How you go about imposing that, that's probably changed, but not the standards themselves."
You can see Dan's interview with Nigel HERE.
Archie's Story
Former Derby County and Nottingham Forest midfielder Archie Gemmill says he would often have to defend himself at half-time when Cloughie picked apart his performance. During his early days at Derby, Gemmill was a particular target for Clough's criticism. He told the latest Green Jumper podcast:
"I was told I was useless, and why had they bought me? A lot of it was unfair, but he told me it was to help me become a better player. I used to say my piece. Something like, 'What match were you watching?'"
In this fascinating chat with pod host Marcus Alton, Gemmill talks about a range of subjects, including signing for Brian, being told he was left out of the 1979 European Cup Final side and working with Cloughie as part of his coaching staff. There's also humour, as Gemmill recalls a Shoot! magazine article from 1980.
Gemmill describes Clough as a terrific manager and a wonderful person. "He made average players become special," he says. Here's the full episode...
New Cloughie Book
H
'Blondie' Sings Praises
Former Nottingham Forest striker Paul McGregor has spoken about how grateful he is to Cloughie for helping his career. And he's revealed how his former team-mates used to tease him that he was Brian's son!
Speaking on a BBC podcast, McGregor recalls how he was given his first team opportunity towards the end of Clough's magnificent 18-year reign at the City Ground.
"I was in school one minute with my boss as the headmaster and then three months later, Clough would be like 'son, run yourself a bath, then run me one!" said McGregor. "He'd call me 'Blondie' and the other lads would give me stick and say, 'your dad's here!'
"I'd run a warm bath for me and a cold one for him on the other side of the room - that's how he liked it - and then we'd sit and have a chat in the bath. Brilliant!"
McGregor explained that times were different back then and he appreciated the investment Clough put in to his young striker. "He was interested in our lives and he was getting to know more about his centre-forward," added McGregor.
"He was wondering, 'What's the lad got? Is he a good kid? Is he family oriented? Is he settling down?' That was probably what was going through his head."
Clough had previously spoken of his pride at seeing young, talented players coming through the Forest ranks. He built several new successful sides even without Peter Taylor, with many more trophy wins.
Cloughie Kiss
Former England defender Viv Anderson has described a memorable 'Cloughie kiss' before a match. It's one of the brilliant stories in the 58th episode of the Green Jumper pod. Viv also recalls breaking a Clough curfew after winning the European Cup.
"Mr Clough said we had to stay in, but about six of us decided to go out," says Viv. "We thought 'we're not staying in the hotel, we've just won the European Cup! I have a vivid memory of John Robertson getting to the door and waving us off - he said he couldn't risk it because of what the manager said."
Viv also talks about the documenary film 'Local Heroes' which tells the inspiring story of how three Nottingham lads came from humble beginnings to beat the odds and reach the pinnacle of club football under Brian Clough's magical management.
He joins former Forest team-mates Tony Woodcock and Garry Birtles in telling their personal stories as part of a nostalgic journey through Clough's European glory years. "I watched the Champions League Final the other day and you'd struggle to find three players from the same country, never mind the same city," says Viv. "It's a unique story."
'Local Heroes' is available on DVD, blu-ray and digital. Here's the trailer...
BARRETT'S TRIBUTE
European Cup hero Colin Barrett has described Cloughie's memorable response when the defender asked for a pay rise. Barrett told the Green Jumper podcast (May 2023) that he went into Clough's office to talk about an increase in salary.
"He threw a copy of the Nottingham Evening Post at me and said 'Stick that in your shoes - that'll raise you off the ground a bit!" Barrett - who scored a vital goal in the European Cup against Liverpool - said he did eventually agree a new pay deal.
"There's no other person I wanted to walk through the door at a quarter to three than Brian Clough," said Barrett. "We knew we were ready. He kept the game simple. They were special times."
CLOUGHIE'S FAREWELL
"I can't believe how good they've been to me." Those were Brian Clough's words as he was asked about the fans who were wishing him well on his retirement, 30 years ago (May 1993). There were emotional scenes as supporters sang his name at his final home league match.
Although Cloughie's Nottingham Forest were relegated in the 2-0 defeat by Sheffield United (1st May 1993), the fans wanted to show their love and admiration for the man who had brought unprecedented success to their club. Even the United supporters sang his name.
You can hear memories of that emotional time, in this bonus edition of the Green Jumper pod...
HEADLINE NEWS
"Brian Clough was the master of mind games, long before Alex Ferguson. You never knew what to expect." Former TV sports reporter Dennis Coath is the guest on the latest Green Jumper pod - where he recalls his many encounters with Brian Clough.
From his first nervous meeting with Cloughie ("Yes, I was nervous, he was a legend!") to their final emotional chat ("I was on the verge of tears"), Dennis remembers special times in the company of the Miracle Manager (pod published March 2023).
The latest stats show the Green Jumper pod now has thousands of listeners in SEVENTY countries - demonstrating the worldwide appeal of Old Big 'Ead. The latest country added to the list is Mauritius. Thanks to all our loyal listeners and great guests!
MOTTY MEMORIES
The former BBC Match of the Day commentator, John Motson, said Cloughie was his most memorable interviewee. There've been many tributes to 'Motty' following the sad news of his passing (February 2023) at the age of 77.
In a special report to mark 35 years behind the microphone, he told the Daily Mail in October 2006 that the Master Manager had been very kind to him.
"The most compelling to interview was Cloughie," said Motson. Clough fans will always remember Motty fondly. The editor of this website, Marcus Alton, said: "Motty's voice will always be associated with football. He'll be very much missed.
"He was extremely kind behind the scenes too. When I wrote to him for the fund-raising campaign for Nottingham's Clough statue, he donated a signed DVD, which helped to raise money as a prize at our fund-raising dinner.
There are more Motty memories, along with his comments about Cloughie, HERE.
ROBBO'S PRIDE
European Cup legend John Robertson says he's not jealous of today's multi-millionaire footballers. Speaking exclusively on the Green Jumper pod, Robbo says he was proud to play for Brian Clough - a man he describes as "a genius, without a shadow of doubt."
Robertson set-up the winning goal in the 1979 European Cup Final and scored the only goal in the final a year later. During Nottingham Forest's First Division title-winning season he'd negotiated a pay rise - which saw him paid £125 a week.
Robbo told pod host Marcus Alton: "I wouldn't swap what happened in my day to what happens now. I'm not jealous. I'm glad I made a career. I wouldn't swap any of it. For instance, I wouldn't swap my European Cup medal for a hundred-grand a week.
"For a man of Brian Clough's stature and reputation in the game to think I was a good player was really, really great." You can hear the full pod HERE.
FORGET FERGIE
Former Nottingham Forest striker Nigel Jemson has described how he turned down Alex Ferguson and signed for Brian Clough instead. Jemson was just 18 when Manchester United agreed a deal with Preston in 1988 and he was invited to attend two days' training to be assessed by Ferguson before the move was finalised.
Jemson told The Times (January 2023) how his manager at Preston had persuaded him to go, even though the teenager - who supported Liverpool as a boy - had a strong hatred for Fergie's side. "I felt like a fish out of water there with so many big players, and I just knew I didn't want to sign for them," says Jemson.
After his first day at United, Cloughie phoned him and he didn't turn-up for the second day's training. Accompanied by his parents, he went to Nottingham the next morning and a deal was agreed while Jemson walked Brian's dog.
"Meeting Brian Clough for the first time was something I had dreamt of," adds Jemson, who scored the winning goal for Forest in the 1990 League Cup Final. "He was a genius. As a young player he liked to keep your feet on the ground...if you stepped out of line you knew about it."
FOOTBALL FORTUNES
A friend of Cloughie has told our Green Jumper podcast that Brian would be delighted with Steve Cooper's progress at Nottingham Forest. Cooper has taken the Reds from the bottom of the Championship and into the Premier League. On top of that, Cooper has managed to steer Forest away from the foot of the table (January 2023).
"Brian would be really pleased with what Steve Cooper is doing at Forest," says Colin Shields, who was one of the few people - besides the players - who Cloughie allowed to travel on the team coach. "I think he would have to admit that Cooper is doing a better job than he did in the Premier League."
Forest were relegated from the Premier League after its first season in 1993, when Cloughie also retired after a trophy-laden 18 years at the City Ground. "I'll never understand why we were relegated - the team played well but had such a run of bad luck," says Colin, who talks about his hopes for the future.
The podcast also takes a look at the original groundbreaking game, Brian Clough's Football Fortunes, and what happened when the Miracle Manager became involved in its launch at Wembley Stadium.
Martin's Memories
European Cup legend Martin O'Neill says he'll never forget the impact of Cloughie's team-talks. "Brian Clough could have been talking about dog walking in his team-talk and it would be interesting, that's the point," says O'Neill. "It's how he said the message to you as much as anything else. It was still simple, very simple."
In an exclusive interview for the Green Jumper podcast O'Neill talks candidly about his days with Cloughie at Nottingham Forest, as well as his managerial partnerships with fellow Clough legends John Robertson and Roy Keane. You can also read our review of Martin's book 'On Days Like These - My Life in Football.'
Statue Selfies
We're celebrating the 14th anniversary of the Clough statue in Nottingham by taking a look at some of the great selfies taken with the sculpture. The statue was unveiled by Barbara Clough on 6th November 2008 and you can read more about that day HERE. Thanks to all the visitors from around the world who've taken selfies over the years...
Alchemy Book
Author Chris Hull says the story of Clough's first managerial job gives a fascinating insight into his remarkable talents as a football boss. Chris is the guest in the Green Jumper pod (November 2022) and describes some of the huge challenges Brian faced at Hartlepools - and how he lifted the club to heights it had never enjoyed before.
Legends Night
Memories of a Cloughie Legends Night are recalled by Nottingham Forest's matchday announcer Mark Dennison in the Green Jumper pod (October 2022). "I've been looking back at the photos and we all looked so young," says Mark reflecting on the event held in 2005. "Nigel Jemson looks about ten!"
The special evening at the City Ground helped to raise money for Nottingham's Clough statue. Alongside the pod, you can read more about that event HERE.
Bus Driver
A new Clough book describes how the Master Manager had lessons to drive the team coach after a near-miss with two oil tankers on the way to a match. Brian was photographed at the wheel of the Hartlepools United bus in a great publicity stunt which also highlighted the club's lack of resources when he became boss.
In 'Alchemy' - the story of Clough's first managerial job - Chris Hull documents how one player stormed down the coach's steps and refused to re-board until he'd calmed down after a near-miss. The coach driver sped through a red light and narrowly avoided colliding with two oil tankers on the outskirts of Nottingham.
"The real reason for seeking the (Public Service Vehicle) licence was that he (Clough) and the players were perturbed about the coach firm sending them 'a series of kamikaze drivers'," writes Hull. In the end the coach firm sent them a more level-headed driver and the manager forgot about obtaining the licence.
'Alchemy' is published by The History Press. RRP £20.00 (hardback). Read our review.
Locked In
Ex-Arsenal defender Martin Keown has revealed how Brian Clough locked him in his office during negotiations to try to sign him.
"He locked me in his office for three hours. It was a surreal experience but a real honour to meet him," Keown told BBC Football Focus (September 2022). "I was due to get married at the end of that week and he sent my wife-to-be flowers with a beautiful vase and the Forest crest on it."
But when Keown phoned later to say he wasn't signing for Nottingham Forest, Clough demanded the gifts be returned. Keown admitted he kept the vase which still sits proudly in his house. "It was difficult to say 'No' to Sir Brian," he said. "I call him Sir Brian because I feel he was an absolute legend."
Soldier's Story
A former soldier who was badly hurt in a bomb attack in Northern Ireland still treasures a 'Get Well' message from Brian Clough who cheekily told him to 'Get up off your backside'. Billy Lundy from Nottingham was serving with the Grenadier Guards when the blast happened in 1979.
In the Green Jumper podcast, Billy tells host Marcus Alton how the letter came about - and Cloughie's offer of a seat at the City Ground when he was well again. He also pays tribute to Queen Elizabeth II, following the sad news in September 2022. You can hear the podcast, below.
You're The Top
A former Fleet Street journalist has revealed how the young Brian Clough he first met with the England squad in 1959 was nothing like the legendary figure he became. "He was a quiet guy who wanted to take a back seat because he felt over-awed by the likes of Jimmy Greaves and Bobby Charlton, two players he idolised," says Norman Giller in the Green Jumper Podcast (August 2022).
Norman also describes how Brian was the first to phone Greavsie when he began his media career and offered an interview 'for nowt' as Cloughie described it. The conversation was recorded by Norman who travelled to Nottingham with Jimmy.
"I was very lucky," says Norman. "I would have paid to be the man who was taping it on that day. It was almost a competition between the two of them of who could get the first word in - and of course Cloughie won that."
Norman tells pod host Marcus Alton about the surprise presentation Clough made to his friend, the commentator Brian Moore - bursting into song to celebrate Moore's long career with ITV (you'll hear how the episode got its title). The trailer is below, while the full episode is on the Podcast Page.
We Decide I Was Right
It seems hard to believe, but it was 50 years ago (August 1972) that Brian Clough produced one of his all-time classic quotes. When asked in an interview how he reacts when a player tells him he's doing something wrong, Clough is confident and assured as he responds:
"We talk about it for twenty minutes, then we decide I was right." The quote has become legendary and is one of the comments engraved around the plinth of the Brian Clough statue in Nottingham. You'll also find it among our collection of classic quotes HERE.
For posterity, here is the original recording (with question and answer in full). Listen out for the chuckle from the interviewer at the end...
On Me Web, Son
August 2022 marks the twenty-second anniversary of this tribute website. It was launched on 8th August 2000 by Marcus Alton, who had learned website code from a book in order to get the site on the emerging world wide web.
Since then, Marcus has written several books about Cloughie, and also used the site as the base for the fund-raising campaign for the statue of Cloughie which now stands proudly in Nottingham city centre.
Marcus has also spoken at a number of book festivals and now hosts the popular Green Jumper podcast which has listeners in more than 60 countries. You can take a trip back to the launch in August 2000 HERE.
Stone's Story
Former Nottingham Forest and England midfielder Steve Stone has recalled the sadness surrounding Cloughie's final league game and retirement. Stone was in the dressing room following the 2-1 defeat at Ipswich, closing the Reds' disappointing relegation season in May 1993.
“I still remember the absolute hush, the quietness of the away dressing room at Ipswich when it was all over,” said Stone in an exclusive interview with the Daily Mirror (August 2022). “We all felt the sadness. It was such a shame for someone who had brought so much happiness to people's lives to go out like that. But since then I've learned that in football, with few exceptions, you don't get to choose the manner of your exit.
“Normally you are a hostage to the moment your body breaks down, or your team is not good enough. It's a fact that more careers end on a low note than glory. It was a poignant farewell, but the team was in massive trouble and he was probably ready to go. He'd had enough of the pressures of football and he deserved a break.”
The Mirror reported: "Stone had already demonstrated the resilience of youth, recovering from three broken legs to score the winner at Middlesbrough on his Forest debut earlier that season. Clough, always a demanding taskmaster but a master of pastoral care, had sustained the injured Geordie prodigy with one-year contracts as he recovered from each set-back."
Stone was speaking as Forest returned to the Premier League for the first time in 23 years. "At some clubs, you walk in the door and you can feel the history. You can taste it,” he said. “For me, it's English football's loss that it took them so long to make it back because it's a proper football club." Stone added: "Nottingham Forest will always be a special club close to my heart.”
Clough Stories
There are more great Cloughie stories in the latest Green Jumper podcast: Clough Stories 3 (August 2022). The guest is author John Brindley, who has interviewed many of the legendary Cloughie players - as well as the Great Man himself. You'll hear some classic tales - including memories of John's treasured interview with Old Big 'Ead.
John also recalls stories involving some of the Clough legends like Des Walker, Ian Bowyer, Gary Mills and John Robertson. Plus he chats about how Brian managed the mavericks such as Kenny Burns, Terry Curran and Duncan McKenzie - with Stan Bowles considered to be 'the one who got away'.
That's all you need...
"Brian Clough would have been looking down saying, 'One-nil, clean sheet, that's all you need.'" That was Garry Birtles' verdict following Nottingham Forest's Play Off Final victory at Wembley, securing Premier League status.
This website is supporting the idea of awarding Forest boss Steve Cooper the Freedom of Nottingham. His team plays attractive football in the right way and has proudly represented the city, transforming the club's fortunes in Cloughie style: from the bottom of the league to the Premier League in just 8 months. Here's the e-petition.
Website editor Marcus Alton (who set up the group of fund-raising volunteers for the Clough statue in Nottingham) said: "Steve Cooper has brought the feel good factor to the city, dramatically transforming Forest’s fortunes in Cloughie style: from the bottom of the league to the Premier League - and its international audience.
"The impact - putting Nottm back on the world stage - will be huge, for the economy, sport & civic pride. He has a very special connection with the fans. We have not witnessed such joyous scenes in Nottingham, as seen yesterday, for a long, long time! The Freedom would be a small but fitting way of the city showing its appreciation."
McFARLAND MEMORIES
Surviving players from Brian Clough's 1972 Division One title-winning side have been recalling the special anniversary (May 2022). They gathered at a special event held at Pride Park stadium, as the curtain came down on a season which saw the Rams relegated from the Championship.
Roy McFarland, then club captain, has recalled how he heard about the title win on the radio. Derby had played all their matches and were now reliant on the result of Wolves' home match against Leeds United. McFarland and fellow defender Colin Todd had left their team-mates on an end-of-season holiday in Majorca in order to report for international duty.
The two players listened on a car radio in Derby as Wolves beat Leeds in the final match of the season. "We heard that full-time whistle on the car radio and it was unbelievable," McFarland told the BBC.
Cloughie himself was on a family holiday on the Isles of Scilly. In a call with BBC Radio Derby just moments after the Rams became champions, Brian uttered the famous words: "I don't believe in miracles, but one's occurred tonight."
Alan Hinton was also part of the title-winning side and flew over from Seattle to join the anniversary event in Derby.
You can hear his memories of working with Cloughie in the Green Jumper podcast. The episode is entitled 'White Boots' and there are bonus episodes called 'Card Trick' and 'Police Car'.
NIGEL x 2
Brian's son Nigel has said he'd have liked the opportunity to work with the former Nottingham Forest owner Nigel Doughty. Nigel Clough's comments came in an interview in the April edition of Four Four Two magazine. Now working as the Mansfield Town boss, Nigel was asked if the City Ground hot-seat might be tempting one day in the future.
"You never know," replies Nigel. "But the longer it goes on, the less likely it is to happen. When it came up before, Burton were in the Championship and it just wasn't right. I regret not having the chance to work with Nigel Doughty, as I think what he did for the club over a number of years was quite incredible."
Nigel says if he and Gary Crosby had taken over at Forest while the late Mr Doughty was owner, he would have looked after the money that Mr Doughty had invested and they'd have had a very good chance of success. Reds fans remember that during Nigel Doughty's ownership, David Platt spent ten million pounds without achieving success.
CLOUGH'S KISS
Brian Clough is pictured (below) giving TV presenter Gary Newbon a smacker during filming for a new Central TV series 35 years ago (April 1987). 'Cloughie's Golden Oldies' took a look back at archive matches involving Midlands clubs.
CLOUGH STORIES
A close friend of Brian Clough is a guest on the Green Jumper pod. Colin Shields was one of the few people - besides the players - that Cloughie allowed to travel on the team coach. Colin talks about life with the Miracle Manager, both in and away from the spotlight. Here's the trailer...
BEATING LIVERPOOL
As the rivalry between Nottingham Forest and Liverpool hits the headlines, with the FA Cup quarter final between the two sides (March 2022), a bonus edition of the Green Jumper pod includes memories of Brian Clough's famous victory in the European Cup.
Cloughie recalls how Liverpool boss Bob Paisley was so incensed about not beating Old Big 'Ead's Reds that he slammed the door of the dressing room so hard it nearly came off its hinges. The pod also includes memories from striker Tony Woodcock, who set-up both goals in the 2-0 win in September 1978.
EUROPEAN GLORY
Ex-England striker Tony Woodcock shares some wonderful Cloughie memories in the latest Green Jumper pod. The Miracle Man, who won the European Cup with the Master Manager, recalls how a special piece of advice before a crucial match against Liverpool helped to knock the European champions out of the competition. Here's the trailer....
MAGIC MAVERICK
Former winger Terry Curran has revealed how the Master Manager caught him doing a team-talk Cloughie-style. Terry used to impersonate Brian - and his Nottingham Forest team-mates encouraged him to 'take him off'. But on one occasion, Cloughie caught him.
"He laughed about it," says Terry. "Then he said, 'Hey young man, there's no other manager like me!" Terry has a collection of brilliant Cloughie stories and recalls them in our two-part Green Jumper pod.
NEW YEAR - SAME CLOUGHIE
Stepping back in time - 40 years in fact, to 1982. A new article on the website (January 2022) looks back to early '82, when Cloughie was in fine form with the media, despite a health scare. He joked with reporters after being admitted to the Derbyshire Royal Infirmary. Read the full story: Clough 1982.