5 autobiographies Scots football fans should get before Joey Barton's

Alex Ferguson with his 1999 autobiography Managing My Life. Picture: PA

Many have a fascination with the Rangers midfielder. They see him as a deep-thinking, reformed character who is trying to better himself by delving into the works of literary and philosophical greats.

Then there are others who just can’t stand the man.

If you fall into the latter group, and all this talk of autobiographies has sub-consciously got you in the mood to read, here are five other football memoirs (with a Scottish connection) to check out.

Paolo Di Canio: The Autobiography

Written while the striker was still with West Ham, Di Canio opens up on his explosive exits from Milan and Celtic, while lifting the lid on his personal hell following the shove on referee Paul Alcock. On his time in Scotland, the Italian striker speaks with great affection for ex-Celtic boss Tommy Burns and opens up his reasons for causing a ruckus with Ian Ferguson at the conclusion of a particularly bad tempered Old Firm game.

Full Time: The Secret Life of Tony Cascarino

One of the most honest and humble football books you’re ever likely to read. The striker opens up about his personal problems, the tremendous self-doubt experienced by footballers during their career, and the end of his marriage. He also dedicates time to an underwhelming spell at Celtic, where through his poor form he feels partially responsible for costing old friend Liam Brady his job.

Managing My Life: My Autobiography (Alex Ferguson)

Fergie’s first book lifted the lid on what drove him to become one of the greatest football managers of all time. Written by Hugh McIlvanney - so you know it hits all the right notes - Managing My Life details his days as a player before spells in charge of East Stirlingshire and St Mirren before his triumphant years at Aberdeen. It’s a section of his life and career that’s skimmed over in the 2013 follow up My Autobiography.

The Second Half (Roy Keane)

Having whipped up quite a storm with initial autobiography, released in the wake of his exit from the Republic of Ireland squad at the 2002 World Cup, Keane had a lot to live up to with his next installment and he didn’t disappoint. Amid the direct and often controversial opinions, there is interesting insight to be found regarding his experiences as a manager at Sunderland and Ipswich. There’s also the tale of his 2006 spell at Celtic and his debut against Clyde.

What’s It All About Ralphie? By Ralph Milne

Why is it we have such fascination with the fallen idol? The hero who can’t battle his own demons in the manner he defeats opponents on the park. These such books have long been a staple of the footballer’s autobiography, but that doesn’t stop them from being poignant. Released six years before his untimely death, Milne gives an honest account of his battles with alcohol which hindered, but didn’t stop, his success with Dundee United.

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