Book Review: Arsenal Official Yearbook 2003

Last updated : 04 August 2003 By Brian Dawes
Just like the 2002 edition it comes complete with a forward by the great man himself, Arsene Wenger. This 160-page paperback is generously illustrated with over 250 colour photographs, which include match action and all the essential personnel from the 2002-3 season.

The biggest section provides a two page report for every major first team match which apart from showing photos from every game, team line-ups, goal scorers, substitutes, date, kick off time, attendance figures, goal times, bookings and dismissals tells you who it was who dismissed them. As this is the official story of yet another record-breaking season however it can't quite tell the full story, such as the FA's diabolical treatment of Sol Campbell, Arsene's better wind-ups of Ferguson and other juicy bits such as a multiplicity of yet more dubious refereeing decisions. The reports do however outline sufficient information for the serious fan to hit his or recall button and relive these occasions that they may have been lucky enough to have witnessed. For many, I imagine that the well chosen action photos will speak louder and longer than the text itself and in years to come flicking through and admiring the pictures will be an easy way to bring the memories flooding back.

Profiles and Statistics of all the first team players and staff plus statistics on the reserves, under 19's, under 17's and Ladies team round off the publication to provide a comprehensive record of our achievements in 2002-3.

You'll be able to order it from any decent bookstore if you quote the following ISBN number: 0 600 60943 X or alternatively checkout your favourite online bookstore. Or if you can wait till the start of the season I've no doubt all places you'd expect to sell it in and around Highbury will be doing so.

Arsenal Official Yearbook 2003 Priced £9.99
Published by Hamlyn 2003