Contested Fields: A Global History of Modern Football

"Clearly written, widely researched, originally organized, and provocatively titled, Alan McDougall's work finds the sweet spot between an accessible account that will enlighten the newcomer and an intelligent rendering that provides new material unknown to many experts. Building on his earlier work, the author provides yet another reminder of soccer's inescapable relevance to the modern world."

Robert Edelman, University of California, San Diego

"Alan McDougall’s book provides a concise and insightful history of football. This is global history at its best."

Thomas Adam, University of Texas, Arlington

"Contested Fields adds to a small and important body of scholarly literature that considers the global dimensions of football. McDougall combines key sociological and historical themes of football in an impressive, accessible, and comprehensive manner. This is an excellent addition to our historical understanding of the global game."

Chris Bolsmann, California State University, Northridge