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Working Conditions
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In the years following
the FA's formal recognition of professionalism, many amateur clubs continued
to operate successfully. These teams contained wealthy gentlemen who were
opposed to being paid for their services. This era of the wealthy amateur
saw the production of many attractive souvenirs for the players, patrons
and supporters.
This bronze-spelter clock is typical of the kind of object that adorned hundreds of Edwardian mantlepieces. |
Manchester United's Billy Meredith became the chairman of the Player's Union on December 2nd 1907. Although the Union had originally been founded in 1899, to defend the rights of the players, it was largely ignored by the FA, League and the clubs themselves. Its fortunes improved after Meredith and his United colleague Charlie Roberts became involved in the Union. In 1908 the FA finally recognised the organisation. |
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Although the players of the 1950s were paid above the national average, their income was restricted by the maximum wage. In an effort to increase their earnings the top players took advantage of a number of commercial opportunities. Wolve's Billy Wright was one of a number of leading internationals who recommended the use of Fussell's rubber studs. |
| The
centre piece of the First Half is the FIFA Museum Collection, the finest
collection of football memorabilia in
the world. Click below for a sneak preview. |
|
| Football
As We Know It Footballs Origins Selling the Game |
Working
Conditions Women's Football Football Superstars |