Like most young boys, Malcolm Christie grew up dreaming of becoming a professional footballer. Rejected by his hometown club Peterborough United and working at Somerfield supermarket, playing amateur football at 19, Malcolm thought the moment had passed him by.
But dreams do come true. Just months after he was stacking shelves, Malcolm was playing for Derby County in the Premier League.
International honours and a big money move to Middlesbrough followed as Malcolm became one of English footballs brightest prospects until a succession of injuries led to a premature end of his promising football career.
The Reality of the Dream chronicles the amazing story of Malcolm Christie’s journey to become the only person in history to go straight from non-league to scoring in the Premier League and representing his country without ever joining a professional academy.
Sad, funny and often emotional, Malcolm’s unique tale provides a brutally honest insight into the reality of life as a footballer, an injured footballer and worse – a retired footballer.
Nicky Selby –
This is a gift for my daughter who is a huge fan of yours.
Will be interesting to read the journey of your career in football.
Tim Large (verified owner) –
An honest and upfront telling of the ups and downs behind the 90 minutes of football on a Saturday afternoon.
An amazing read from one of my favourite players of ‘those’ Derby County days.
An awe inspiring story of what can be achieved with hard work and dedication and never giving up on your dream and having the right people around you at the right times.
John the Ram –
A great read that really shines a light on what it is actually like to be footballer.
Nigel –
Awesome book and signed too!
Debbie –
Loved it. Gave me a real insight into the life of a Premier League player. Quite sad at times too.
Anonymous –
I got the book early doors as Malcolm was a great player. The whole book is a fantastic read but for me my favourite part was reading about what went on behind the scenes with his injuries (although massive negative as would have loved to have had him out on the pitch banging in the goals). Reading it made me understand how little the supporters actually know about these situations behind the scenes and the assumptions made when players are not available for selection. Understanding how hard Malcolm worked to get fit and back out on the pitch and the mental impact it had has certainly opened my eyes and was inspirational. Have said it before this book is a must for supporters of any club and current pros could learn a lot from it… pleased to see Malcolm now training the next generation through his training camps. Wish Malcolm nothing but peace, success and happiness. UTB