Heads Up: My Life Story

As a fan of neither Arsenal or Leicester I guess I am not typical of the book’s readership. No, I was lured into buying this by the genial nature of Alan Smith, as he largely stands alone in these days of brash and aggressive footballers. In many ways he is the footballing version of cricket's Chris Woakes – another who seems to live in a calm bubble whilst others rush around chasing answers to questions that are yet to be asked. Throughout the book I was struck by the level of self-doubt that Alan went through, as he calmly rose to the top of his profession. Despite numerous goals, best demonstrated by his two golden boots, Alan confesses to struggles with the footballing bag of fun that was Ian Wright, a player from opposite ends of the Smith spectrum, and the constant expectations on him to perform. Of course, being a decent sort, Alan largely refrains from laying into colleagues that were not up to the standards set by George Graham, a multi-facetted man who emerges as a strong leader. Indeed, the harshest observations from the pen of Mr Smith are reserved for his own character flaws, which, I would hasten to add, are more gifts to be treasured than negatives to be flaunted in public. So what that he never possessed a nasty streak or demanded excessive wages. These are positives in a world where authenticity is in such short demand. Alan Smith, by way of contrast, emerges as a well-grounded, well-rounded chap who understands that he doesn’t exactly fit in amongst the celebrity obsessed modern media circus and is happy to view it from outside. He should (and clearly does) enjoy the skin he is in without worrying about how he is perceived by his peers. These are admirable character traits that have enabled his post-football career to flourish, with his FIFA fame spreading far and wide.To be honest, I enjoyed this book so much so that I now officially pardon Alan Smith for his hat-trick against Wolves, back in 1983, when we were demolished 5-0 by Leicester at Filbert Street. In short, a great read, especially as it was penned by his own hand – may others take note.

There are a lot of former great players working on television football coverage, but only a few have that ability to see, and communicate, much more than the average fan sees. Alan Smith is one of those few. This is an excellent autobiography, mainly of course covering his playing years at Leicester and Arsenal, but also his family background and path via non-League football.It is a wonderful window into the world of top flight English football before the big bucks (and global stars) of today’s Premier League. Alan is a proper writer, and as you read you can hear him speaking every sentence. He’s very honest about his career, and the people he has played and worked with. He’s a naturally modest man, but it’s worth remembering what a superb player he was - two Golden Boots in title-winning years.

Alan Smith is my favorite Arsenal player of all time. A big man blessed with a great touch and a quick brain, he scored two of my favorite goals. No, not Anfield. A scrappy equalizer at Highbury against Liverpool and a great header vs the Mankers in an F.A Cup tie. Smith always seemed shy of the limelight and as this book reveals, that was in fact the case. An honest read which re-enforces why I admire him even above Wrighty and Thierry Henry.

I left home at 18 and went to work in the hotel trade, in Jersey. Shy as anything. 30 years later, I still remember that night like it was yesterday. Thanks for the memories, Alan.I enjoyed your book and you get 5 stars because you don't pretend to be someone you're not.

Interesting read from Smudge. Deep thinking, intelligent and real role model.talented footballer who served with distinction. A real hero of 1989 and 91 championships. A member of the almost Invincibles. Who could forget Copenhagen 1994. Double golden boot winner.