Book review: Gentleman Jim McCarthy, by Neil Thompson

Gentleman Jim McCarthy, by Neil Thompson; published by Balboa Press; price: £14.99

Neil Thompson realised that his desire to play football and be involved in the game came from his uncle, Jim McCarthy.

So he wanted to find out more about his relative’s football career and life. And it’s fair to say Thompson has done it superbly in his book Gentleman Jim McCarthy.

Family connections

Thompson knew that his uncle had football pedigree but it took a lot of digging to find out all he wanted to know. This is not surprising when you’re going back so far into the past.

James McCarthy was born in Liverpool in 1911 and went on to serve in the Irish Guards.

He also played football for Barnet with distinction for over a decade and captained the Ireland amateur team.

There are some brilliant pictures in the book – those old black and white team pictures that really resonate, cuttings, and medals.

The letters from the Irish Football Associaton, though, tell a story of a far different time.

For example, one from Belfast in February 1937 states: “You are requested to bring your own boots with you. This Association will provide jersey, pants and stockings.”

The design of the book is likewise excellent and really makes it stand out from the crowd.

As for Thompson, he was indebted to his uncle for all the advice he gave him when he was a young goalkeeper.

Thompson was also glad to finally complete his book, which he has dedicated to his late wife Denise. SHe had always encouraged him to finish it when there were obstacles in the way.

He said: “My aim was to provide the history of my uncle, recording for posterity his achievement in football at a very difficult time in history.

“Achieving the greatest football accolade of a player to become the captain of his country team, Ireland.”

He’s done him proud.

John Lyons

Rating: 8/10

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