Lawrie McMenemy: A lifetime’s obsession

Lawrie McMenemy’s career in football has seen him cross paths with some of the biggest names in the game as he became a top manager and big personality in an era dominated by top managers and big personalities.


Getting his first manager’s role aged only 28, his big break came when he landed the top job at Southampton. McMenemy rebuilt the club, taking them on a remarkable journey that saw the club rise from the second division to the upper echelons of the top flight and a regular place in Europe. 


The highlight came in 1976 when the Saints upset the odds to record one of football’s biggest shocks, beating Manchester United to lift the FA Cup.


McMenemy built teams of honest pros with a sprinkling of superstars such as Alan Ball, Mike Channon, Peter Osgood, Charlie George, Peter Shilton and Kevin Keegan. The eventful signing of European Footballer of the Year Keegan – that bizarrely owed much to the search for a light fitting – saw Southampton stun the football world again. 


The job offers rolled in and Manchester United famously came calling – a position he rejected along with three others he has not revealed until now.


Then there was England. McMenemy became assistant to Graham Taylor during a colourful period that included a role as ‘interpreter’ for Paul Gascoigne as well as THAT ill-advised documentary. A spell in the Northern Ireland hotseat followed.


A larger than life character who gained inspiration and friendship from legendary bosses like Bill Shankly, Jock Stein and Brian Clough, McMenemy is an instantly recognisable figure from his role as a TV pundit.


It took Lawrie many years to compile the anecdotes and experiences that have shaped a unique life in football. Now, for the first time, he is ready to tell his story.


Lawrie McMenemy: A lifetime’s obsession shows how strength of character, an eye for talent and a large slice of success can carry someone to a career that football dreams are made of.