Schmeichel : The Autobiography [Hardcover]

As Dennis Bergkamp placed the ball on the spot the full implications of the penalty hadn't hit me. Looking back, I can see that I was facing one of the most important moments of my career with United. If he'd scored we would have been knocked out of the FA Cup and I don't think we would have won the Premiership.

Peter Schmeichel's responses in such moments were invariably flawless and his place in United folklore was confirmed before that crucial save against Arsenal in a pulsating semi-final at Villa Park. He had already won 12 trophies as he approached the end of his eighth and final season at Manchester United and was widely regarded as the world's best goalkeeper. Given Schmeichel's achievements, including Denmark's 1992 European Championship triumph, you would expect his autobiography to be a mere chronicle of his successes, something strictly for afficionados of the United or Danish variety. While he doesn't fail that category of reader, Schmeichel balances his account with reflections on some of his lower points, from his confrontations with Ian Wright--"I was on the brink of becoming the first player in the history of the Premier League to be charged with racist behaviour"--to the protracted transfer negotiations between United and Brondby that jeopardised his move to Manchester in 1991. Schmeichel also gives a revealing insight into his relationships with Eric Cantona and Sir Alex Ferguson, the latter regarding the Dane as "the buy ofthe century". Worth a read, this one. --Jamie Foulerton

The Great Dane gave the impression on the pitch of being forthright... his autobiography does little to dispel that impression. --This text refers to the Paperback edition.

Detailed insight from his early days with Denmark to the magnificent highs with Manchester United...makes fascinating reading. --This text refers to the Paperback edition.

If any footballer merits an autobiography, it's him... well worth reading. --This text refers to the Paperback edition.

United fans and devotees of Denmark will love it. --This text refers to the Paperback edition.

First published in 1999, Schmeichel talks in details about his time in English football, his decision to quit while still at the top, the secrets of United's success, and about individuals such as Sir Alex Ferguson, Cantona and Beckham. He also sets the record straight over the headline-grabbing confrontations with Ian Wright.