Why are the English so crazy about football(soccer)?

Football (or soccer- boo!) is deeply ingrained into English society. A famous football manager once  said: 'Some people believe football is a matter of life and death. I can assure you it is much, much more important than that.’

There are many fierce rivalries in footballs top divisions for example, Man Utd V Liverpool, Celtic v Rangers, Arsenal v Spurs & Cardiff v Swansea to name but a few. Often trouble can erupt due to bad feelings between rival supporters. However, the bad reputation “English hooligans” were branded  with has largely now been eradicated from the game. The English now lead the way in the world with state of the art fully seated stadiums with excellent facilities. This largely came about after the Hillsborough disaster in 1989. Some trouble can still occur outside the grounds but, again this is rare.  I would recommend watching a live premiership game as the atmosphere generated by both supporters is a unique experience. You will hear plenty of songs, chants and good natured banter from rival fans.

Football players are idolised by their club supporters and are paid large salaries to play for the clubs. Most money in football is now generated by television deals and millionaire owners. For example, two of Englands most sucessful clubs are both owned by American consortuims. This has largely created a division where money now breeds success.

Do talk about: Geoff Hurst Hatrick for England in 1966

Don’t mention: Penalties or the “Hand of God”  

For more about the History of Football, click here.