7 December 2009
Review: Ingerland – Travels With A Football Nation
By Claire Gibson
Ingerland – Travels With A Football Nation by Mark Perryman
Mark Perryman taps into the psyche of England fans in the lead-up to Euro 2004, focusing on what it means to be an ‘Ingerland’ fan.
The many factors are thoroughly explained but the overwhelming response is the sense of patriotism, epitomised by the fact that every England home game is a sell-out. The account is narrated by staunch England fan Mark Perryman, who has attended England matches both home and away for the last 10 years and is heavily involved in supporter-led initiatives. Clearly, a man who knows what he is talking about. Watching football is also an extremely good opportunity to travel and broaden your horizons. In the words of one fan ‘Football takes us to places we otherwise wouldn’t dream of visiting’.
I think one of the positive features of this book is that it tells the story through the fans’ experiences, although a weakness is that it may be considered a dry, dull read in places. Perhaps more reminiscent of an academic textbook than a lively read, however this may be expected considering the author is a University research fellow. Yet, a possible criticism is assuming the reader understands the terminology used. For example, not everyone knows a ‘xenophobe’ is someone who fears/hates people of other countries. This could be problematic as the book is aimed at ordinary football fans, incorporating all social classes and levels of education.
A strength of ‘Ingerland’ is that it covers innovative ground exploring the new generation of England fans – for example Asians. Mark Perryman is clearly knowledgeable on the topic at hand and has researched the area well, conversing with a range of fellow England fans including females and children. In the book, Barbara Gill states how regularly attending England home games with her son Peter has strengthened their relationship.
Perhaps, ‘Ingerland’ could have been enhanced with inclusion of illustrations (in particular of the fans) to highlight the points raised throughout the book, and even strengthen their credibility. There are no pictures except for the front cover. Although not the most eye-catching, it should be commended for being reflective of the content to follow about what it means to be an England fan. The photo shows England fans at a home international with flags of teams from across the country, from Premier League to non-league, proudly displayed around the stadium. This represents a breakdown of divisions at club level and shows all fans united together as one in loyal support for their country. They are proud to be English as demonstrated through the sea of red and white forming a St Georges cross.
Overall, I would say ‘Ingerland’ is an extremely well researched documentary on what it means to be an England fan, with an in-depth exploration of the relationship between fan culture and national identity. It is a modern account offering new insight on the types of people who are England fans. If you are patient enough to get past the heavy parts and complex terminology, then this makes for an interesting and informative read for any true football fan.
