Armitage Shanks and the Footballer's Bones

A hilarious series all about the trials and tribulations of the Western Wildcats, possibly the worst soccer team in the universe! Western Wildcats, is a comic adventure and family drama, following the fortunes of a completely hopeless but enthusiastic soccer team, and featuring the characters of Paul and Eric Underwood (who have appeared in John Larkin’s previous novels).

Then there’s the old drunk over the fence from the oval where the Wildcats train: someone recognizes him as Paddy Doyle, a former football star who once played in the FA Cup final. And they persuade Paddy to sober up and help coach the team.

And the whole crazy adventure races towards an unexpectedly moving conclusion. While this book is one of John Larkin’s funniest, it also offers insights into the nature of success and fame.