Description

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Only 180 of the 1.5 million boys who play organized youth soccer in England will become a Premier League pro—a success rate of 0.012%. How and why do the favored few make it? Who should they trust—the coach, the agent or their parents? Michael Calvin provides the answers on a journey from non-league grounds to hermetically sealed Premier League palaces, via gang-controlled housing estates and the England team’s inner sanctum. He interviews decision makers, behavioral specialists, agents, and leading coaches. He exposes bullying and a black economy in which children are commodities, but remains true to the dream.

About the Author

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Michael Calvin is the first author to receive the Times Sports Book of the Year prize in successive years, for The Nowhere Men and Proud. The second book of his soccer trilogy, Living On The Volcano, was shortlisted for the William Hill Sports Book of the Year prize. 

Praise For…

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"Another landmark work from Mike Calvin, who has taken us beyond the surface of football to show its true workings. Ground-breaking reportage with a heart and a conscience. A service to the game." —Paul Hayward, Telegraph

"Extraordinary writing, a vital subject, a brilliant read." —Jonathan Northcroft, Sunday Times

"If you’re in any way interested in what lies beneath the water of the Premier League Iceberg, read Mike Calvin’s latest book No Hunger in Paradise." —Owen Gibson, Guardian

"A fascinating insight which gets to the heart of the matter – and problems – chasing every kid’s dream. A compelling read for anyone who likes football and the stories surrounding the stars of tomorrow. I couldn't put it down." —John Cross, Daily Mirror

"Another exceptional piece of work." —Jason Burt, Telegraph