SERIES: Fan Sided

Exploring the history and evolving nature of fan engagement, our series, FANsided, examines and celebrates the power of fan culture. With the internet and sports media increasingly democratising fan content, we present our conversations with sports fans.

IMAGO / Geoff Martin

Are you a muppet or a goon? Words by Martin Tarbuck.

My football club is unique. Let me explain why. The above question was first asked in the late 80’s in an article in the seminal Wigan Athletic fanzine Cockney Latic. Essentially, it was a social study intended to break supporters into a number of categories based on their match day rituals.

GOAL CLICK presents: Storytellers

GOAL CLICK presents: Storytellers

Each of the following collections was created on film, capturing real fans, clubs, places and cultures. Our friends at Goal Click feature some of their international photo-stories from fans perspectives, giving us a glimpse into their teams, communities and fan culture.

IMAGO / Sportfoto Rudel

FANsided, Words by Andy Murray

The fan is an intrinsic, irreplaceable part of sport. Without the humble observer, elite competition becomes an unrelenting trudge to the bottom line – a sterile pursuit of results and ever-diminishing (or increasing) numbers.

IMAGO / ZUMA Wire

The Position of Football Fans in the Modern-Day

Plans for a breakaway super league stimulated a fan uprising and rocked European football last month. As fans, politicians and players alike united in outrage, the world was reminded of the position of the football fan and the undeniable culture that encompasses the game. Sam Hudspith looks back on a week of unease for football’s richest clubs.