Sir Bob Murray launches updated autobiography including take on European return and financial fair play
All proceeds from sales will go to the Foundation of Light
Former Sunderland AFC chairman Sir Bob Murray will be back in the city next week to launch an updated version of his autobiography, I'd Do It All Again.
Sir Bob, who turned 80 this year, was chairman of the club for 20 years and was the driving force behind the building of the Stadium of Light and has left a lasting legacy in the city with the creation of the club’s official charity the Foundation of Light and its home, the Beacon of Light.
The updated version includes a new chapter and epilogue and will be released on Thursday November 5, the same day the Black Cats play their second home Europa League fixture against Dinamo Zagreb.
In the three years since Sir Bob penned the original book, SAFC have experienced a meteoric rise and in the epilogue the former chairman addresses the club’s return to the Premier League, European football and what lies ahead for the Stadium of Light.
The new book also includes Sir Bob’s take on wider footballing issues including his concerns about financial fair play, the Manchester City case and the direction football is heading.
The original book has already raised in excess of £125,000 for the Foundation of Light, with proceeds from the new paperback edition continuing to support the charity.
Speaking ahead of the launch, Sir Bob said: “The response to the original book has been wonderful, and I'm very grateful for the support it has given the Foundation of Light.
“Bringing out a paperback means we can reach more readers and hopefully raise even more money for the Foundation. I've also been able to bring the story up to date, and what a difference a few years have made.
“To see the club back in the Premier League and playing in Europe again is fantastic. I couldn't be happier with what they've achieved.”
The autobiography takes readers from boardroom battles at Roker Park to the creation of the magnificent Stadium of Light, with stories involving some of football's best-known names, including Len Shackleton, Brian Clough, Lawrie McMenemy, Peter Reid and Niall Quinn.
Football writer Henry Winter said: “Sir Bob Murray is the great businessman, football man and beacon of hope who built the Stadium of Light and gave Sunderland some of their best days.
“Sir Bob has never forgotten his roots on Wearside. In fact, he's always nurtured those roots, helping others. His fascinating and insightful book captures all the drama of running a football club – and changing people's lives.”
On the day of the launch, Sir Bob will be at Waterstones in The Bridges from 12.30pm, followed by the Fans Museum from 4.30pm, where he will be reunited with a familiar piece of Sunderland history – the original boardroom table from Roker Park, where he will sign copies of his book.