Product Description

Martin Johnson is the towering second row forward who has come to set the standards of what a professional rugby player should do. His drive and physical presence mean that he is a natural leader on the pitch - and off it, too. In this, his long-awaited autobiography, he looks at the changing world of rugby. He explains why he led the England team to the brink of a strike in the autumn of 2000, and provides the definitive account of England's 2003 World Cup triumph, as well as Lions tours and all the goings-on that make rugby such a special sport. Hugely popular and respected, Martin Johnson has written vivid autobiography and a remarkable portrait of modern rugby.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #110921 in Books
• Published on: 2004-08-02
• Original language: English
• Binding: Paperback
• 480 pages

Review
'Firm, clear and fascinating... There is no morbid sentimentality...about these passages, and their directness is reflected throughout the book with no concessions to the squeamish... His rugby life [is] quite a journey, but...millions will feel compelled to make the trip.' (Brough Scott, Sunday Telegraph )

'Very droll, dry, self-deprecating humour; Johnno is a very funny man...this is so crisp, tough. I think it's a good buy for Christmas.' (Germaine Greer )

About the Author
Martin Johnson has achieved all there is to achieve in rugby since making his England debut in 1993. He has captained his club, Leicester, to all the major honours, winning four successive league title (1999-2002) and two European Cups (2001 and 2002); he's led England with huge success, including the 2003 Grand Slam and the 2003 World Cup, winning 84 caps by the end of 2003 and captained the British Lions on their last two tours.

Customer Reviews

'Frank' Martin Johnson
Typical Martin Johnson. This is the best autobiography I have read purely because of how frank Johnson is. It is refreshing to read honest opinions on everything from the state of the game of rugby, opposing teams, fans and referees as well as his own team mates. Johnson is not afraid to say what he wants about any subject. It is easy to see how he was picked as Lions captain in 97 and then England captain because of his strong work ethic and fearlessness on and off the pitch.

I found it hard to put this down as once you start reading it you want to follow his career from all the low points, ranging from leading a potential strike of the England team, his days as a junior Kiwi, stuggles at club level with injuries all the way to that amazing game in oz lifting the world cup. It is actually gripping stuff even for non rugby fans (my mum has now read it) which is a sign of true character as you can still get to know what makes this great leader tick without needing to know what the hell a rugby ball is. A rare quality and one definalty worth a read.

True Englishman in every sense of the word, Strong, Brave, brutely honest, polite, self confident and inspirational.

Salute to a fantastic captain!
Have read this autobiography prior to purchasing and it makes a fantastic read. Martin Johnson far surpasses any English rugby captain and deserves the title 'the best ever England rugby captain'. This book is a tribute to the success of Martin and is a must for avid England rugby fans, true fans will get a magnificent insight into this tower of strength who lead us to World Cup victory. You feel you are living with Martin as you progress through the book, the highs and lows and all the emotions that he went through! What an excellent autobiography!

As good as Johnson himself
An absolutely brilliant book. As he did throughout his career, Johnson was never afraid to speak his mind and to give his opinion. He talks on a number of highly topical issues and gives a unique insight into some of the realities, which sometimes alot of fans forget, that face modern rugby players. You really feel that Johnson gave himself to this book and did not shirk honesty or detail at any point. An excellent read if you are a rugby fan, and even if you're not! 100% recommended.