Destroying Angel: Steve Bloomer

They called Steve Bloomer ‘Paleface’, but his angelic appearance belied a body of steel, enormous football talent and a ruthless will to win which made ‘Steve’ the greatest goal machine of his time. That is why they also dubbed him the ‘Destroying Angel’. 
In this book we share in the unique experiences of England’s first football hero – often victorious, sometimes tragic, but always entertaining. From tough Black Country beginnings in 1874, Bloomer took the early game by storm, making his name with Derby County and Middlesbrough and wearing the ‘three lions’ of Englnd with prolific effect. 
His remarkable career shares the stage with Bloomer’s colourful ‘other life’, including the four years he spent in a German prison camp, and pioneering steps into the world of coaching abroad in Holland, Germany, Spain and Canada.  
Also sensitively chronicled are his twilight years during which he acted as scout, pundit and honorary elder statesman for both Derby County and the wider world of British football. 
Steve Bloomer died in 1938 but his illustrious name still ranks high in football circles everywhere. This critically acclaimed and highly entertaining life story brings the ‘Destroying Angel’ back to life for new generations.   

Peter Seddon is an experienced author, freelance writer and researcher who has followed his home club Derby County since the 1960s. His specialist knowledge of Victorian and Edwardian sport is particularly reflected in Destroying Angel. Among his other acclaimed football titles are The Little Book of Derby County, Football Talk, and the award-winning Football Compendium.