Vertical Editions are delighted to announce an agreement to publish the fourth book in the excellent 'Played Up Pompey' series, from Portsmouth football club writer Neil Allen.
Neil, the chief sports writer at the Portsmouth News, has covered Pompey since 2000 and has won the regional sports journalist of the year award four times. The fourth book in the popular PUP series will contain fresh interviews with 22 players whose immense contributions have left an indelible mark on a truly special football club.
With a foreword by former Pompey boss Harry Redknapp, PUP4 will explore the Blues careers of those whose outstanding performances established them as household names and folk heroes among the Fratton faithful. It is expected to be released in September 2024, and Pompey fans who pre-order the hardback book via Vertical Editions before July 31, 2024 will have the chance to have their name, or a loved one's, printed in a roll of honour free of charge.
"What I find refreshing and truly invigorating when writing the Played Up Pompey series is the remarkable honesty and openness from the players interviewed," said Neil ."These are their stories, unfettered, unrestricted and uninhibited.
"Lifting the lid on dressing room life, providing supporters with fascinating insights and often blunt truth. The success of these books entirely rests with the players and their willingness to speak with a welcome candour rarely found in football."
Publisher Danny Hall added: "We were delighted to get our own signing over the line late in the January transfer window and look forward to working with Neil on the latest of his popular series of books. Pompey fans are in for a real treat with exclusive insight into 22 more players and the ups and downs of their Fratton Park careers."