In the early 1990s an unassuming defender was transformed into the hottest forward in England, firing his team to two cup finals before a bittersweet ending

July/August issue available now online and in stores

Many children have a natural obsession with the game and Football Beyond Borders are having huge success in channelling that enthusiasm into improving young people’s education

Eighty-eight years on, people are still confused about which football was used in the first ever World Cup final after an argument erupted between Argentina and Uruguay

England is not the only country to have phrases relating to the game, and many across the planet have fascinating origins

We are looking for a magazine designer to work on our new children’s title, Kickaround. The job would involve working 10-15 days per month, on a flexible basis, from the WSC office in London E1. Anyone interested should have at least two years’ experience on a consumer magazine, preferably a sports and/or children’s title. Football knowledge is a definite advantage.

If you are interested, please send a CV, short covering letter and three of your magazine spreads to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

From managers avoiding promotion to dodgy referees, supporters love making up exotic reasons for why their team have lost

Friendlies against World Cup qualifiers Mexico and Peru highlight how much work Alex McLeish still has to do to get Scotland to a tournament

Third issue of WSC’s new magazine for young fans aged 7-12 available to buy in stores and online

The age at which children are signed by professional clubs is getting younger, but the consequences for those stuck in the world go far beyond disappointment at not making the first team