Publication date:
27 November 2020Publisher
St David's PressISBN-13: 9781902719863
Seemingly cursed by decades of perpetual near-misses and gut-wrenching tragedy, Together Stronger is the definitive story of an incredible decade when a golden generation of talented young players were identified and capped by John Toshack and Brian Flynn, developed into an effective and confident team by Gary Speed and, in incredibly difficult circumstances, united in an intensely close-knit and well-drilled squad by Chris Coleman to create the most successful qualification campaign in Welsh football history.
With exclusive behind-the-scenes insights from many of Wales’ key players including Chris Gunter, Neil Taylor, Joe Ledley and captain Ashley Williams – as well as the revealing and candid thoughts of Wales managers John Toshack and Chris Coleman – the award-winning journalist Chris Wathan has written the inside story of how a golden generation emerged to tell the greatest tale Welsh football has ever told.
‘There are no writers who have been as close to Welsh football as Chris over the last ten years. It is a story that's worth telling, worth reading and definitely worth enjoying! It's been a story to remember – and one worth waiting for.’
Ashley Williams, Wales captain, from his Foreword
‘A must-read for anyone with an interest in Welsh football, and how a country that has always produced great players, finally produced a team with the quality and the unity to reach a first major tournament since 1958.’
Sam Wallace, Chief Football Writer, The Telegraph
‘An absorbing and essential book by Wales’ best football journalist. Chris Wathan’s reputation is built on doing journalism’s hard yards to provide the real, inside stories behind the headlines: building up a rich network of contacts and investigating events, not merely reporting them.’
Ian Herbert, Chief Sportswriter, The Independent
‘Well-informed insight into Wales' rollercoaster ride to the Euros. Chris Wathan writes with authority and sensitivity. The devastating chapter on Gary Speed's death is deeply moving.’
Henry Winter, The Times
'Wonderful, I loved it. Only someone with Wathan's access to the team and unrivalled football knowledge could have written a book like this. It will be cherished by Welsh football fans for many years to come. You've done Welsh football proud. A superb achievement.'
Elis James, Comedian, Actor and Welsh football obsessive