RIP Tony Book

Alty Red said:
I come in peace. I was saddened to hear of Tony Book's passing, though he lived a long and memorable life. I was lucky enough to watch the derby games of the 1960s (when Johnny Crossan was your skipper), and the 1970s, and the tussles Tony Book had with Bestie. He was an honest to goodness defender, never dirty, just a solid player who perhaps didn't get the accolades that Bell, Lee, and Summerbee got. But my late dad reckoned that, had he been a few years younger, he would have been a cert for England. The names from that time are gradually leaving us but we have some great memories of Manchester football of that era, and by heck, it was a good time. RIP.
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Really good post that mate,much appreciated.
 
The thing I remember most about Skip on the field was his seemingly leisurely stride. He loped along, but he always got where he was needed. Underrated as a player, I think.
 
I first met Tony ‘Skip’ Book about 20 years ago at a City related function and was in awe of the man as I introduced myself in a nervous crackling voice, "Hi I'm Mark, it's a pleasure to meet you", although he was well before my City time in terms of playing days, he had still been a hugely important figure at the club, I was well aware growing up a blue of his City history, and status, as he always seemed to feature in the football annuals I collected as a kid and also the City match day programmes.

Like so many other of the superstars of his City era, he was always so down to earth and would greet you with a warm smile, a smile that left you feeling great, but still a little nervous as to what he was thinking, mainly because we had all heard the stories and the legendary tales of ‘Skip’ being the hard task master.

I carried on bumping into Mr City at various events over the years and even as recently as the official supporters club anniversary dinner last year, as Tony Book approached me he held out his hand simply said “Evening Mark” as to if he was greeting an old friend which made me feel 10 feet tall, but that’s the ability special people have, they simply make others feel special in their company, and that was Tony Book.

RIP Tony Book – That’s some team being put together up there

bookblack&white.jpg
 
harlech said:
In the 1980's he appeared on a HTV West program called "Flashback For The Fans" which invited West Country footballers to talk through their careers. Both Skip and Buzzer featured in episodes.Tony told a great story about being introduced to Princess Anne prior to the cup final and saying to her "Member me to your Ma'am".
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Franny Lee mentions that on an interview on the Bell, Lee & Summerbee VHS that came out in late 80s/early 90s.

Apparently Skip got a telegram from the Queen the next day thanking him for his kind regards!
 
along with Bobby Charlton, presented me with my Cycling Proficiency Certificate @ Benchill County Primary School a million years ago, think I was in the minority as a Blue
 
On the coach from city social club up to Aberdeen to see his debut. Lost 2-1 but what a great trip. Then down to Southampton to see his City league debut A marvellous character and true City legend.
 
Psychedelic Casual said:
This is the programme from Tony Book’s debut away at Southampton

View attachment 143542
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Note, Bobby Kennedy’s name immediately beneath Skip’s n’all.
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Was at Maine road 4 days later his home debut midweek 2-1 win v Liverpool,our first season back in the top division after 3 seasons in the old 2nd.
 
Not usually affected by stuff anymore, but my first game was Book manager and Law in the attack so sad couple of days, very much a coming to an end of something for me,
 
When we won the second division ( or whatever it was called then) under Keegan we got the chance to have our picture took with the trophy.

3 hours queuing in the Kippax, absolutely cheesed off big time as we made our way up the stand for the picture.

Got to the top and there was Skip - shaking hands, having pictures taken and chatting with everyone. Looking back what a brilliant man (person?) manager he was. That last half hour waiting didn’t seem too bad.
 
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