Century scores Southgate's 'inspirational life lessons'

PRH imprint Century is publishing an "inspirational book of life lessons" for young people and parents by England football manager Gareth Southgate.

Slated for this November, publishing director Ben Brusey acquired world rights to Anything Is Possible: Be Brave, Be Kind & Follow Your Dreams, in print, serial, digital and audio from Tom Caplan at 10Ten Talent. Southgate will also narrate the audiobook. 

Brusey said: “We couldn’t be more proud or excited to be publishing Gareth and his hugely positive book Anything Is Possible this autumn. Full of Gareth’s characteristic warmth, kindness and thoughtfulness, his book is the inspirational read we have all been waiting for from one of this country’s most admired leaders and role models. Gareth has empowered young people throughout his career, and I know that his book has the power to inspire so many readers this Christmas, and for years to come.”

The book is based on Southgate's experiences as a player, manager and parent. The synopsis says of the book it "distils his positive and empathetic leadership style to help young people to be happier and more successful in life. From managing fear and anxiety, to developing resilience and grace under pressure, the book offers warm and practical advice on how readers of all ages can follow their dreams in life, whilst being kind and considerate to others."

Southgate said: “When working with England, we try to take an approach that focuses on what we might achieve, instead of worrying about what might go wrong. When you’re a young person, the world is a complicated place and those clear goals can be clouded by doubt, anxiety and a lack of self-belief. 

“If I can go from a skinny, introverted teenager who was told he wouldn’t make it as a player to someone who played and managed his country then I’m clear that ‘anything is possible’. By sharing some of the experiences and lessons from the highs (and lows) of my career, I hope to be able to help young people to prepare for the journey ahead of them. I’ve had great fun working on the book and I hope that the young readers — and the older ones — enjoy it.”

The book will be published in November, following an autumn of international football, which will see England play six times in the UEFA Nations League, in addition to two non-competitive matches.