Brian’s Review Blog

Published in the wake of his re-discovery through the great art form of our age - Reality TV, this autobiography tackles the question of where did it all go wrong for Sharpe. Bursting onto the scene with a glorious hat-trick in a famous 6-2 win v. Arsenal, this 19 year old had Manchester United, and the world, at his feet. Yet he retired aged just 31, disillusioned and disenfranchised with the game, and many of those he encountered in it.

An entertaining read, Sharpe’s tale is told light heartedly and with good humour. His decency and humility are never far from the page (dismissing his own talent when comparing himself with contempories Giggs and Beckham), and he provides some insights into the elusive characters of Messrs. Keane and Cantona. He agonises over his complicated relationship with United manager Alex Ferguson, and does not shy away from admitting his hurt and bitterness at his once caring father figure.

I’d recommend this book to anyone who has followed English soccer since the 80′s. Sharpe’s story overlaps the pre- and post- Premiership eras, and his career highlights the contrast between two very interestingly. Whilst it certainly is another “what might’ve been” tales, Sharpe has few regrets, and his self portrayal as a likeable and modest guy is hard to disagree with.