Mark Metcalf

In October 2008 my authorised biography on Sunderland, Millwall and Ireland footballing legend Charlie Hurley was published and its success allowed me to embark on a full-time career as a freelance journalist, writer and author. I have written many football books including biographies on Frank Swift and Fred Spiksley with the book Flying Over an Olive Grove proving a major success. I assisted Stan Anderson and Roy Massey to write their autobiographies.

I have written many books on famous teams from the past including PNE 1888-89, Everton 1890-91, Manchester United 1907-11, Barnsley 1910-12 and Wolves 1959-60. I co-wrote a book on each player to finish as top scorer in the top flight.

Other books are in different stages of production.

I am well-known as a historian of the game and regularly get asked to comment in the media on disputed historical facts. It was my work that confirmed that Kenny Davenport scored the first ever League goal in September 1888. I am a regular speaker at supporters’ branch meetings. I was responsible for a series of PFA plaques being unveiled for former legends.