For half a century, the PFA Awards have stood as the defining individual honour in English football, celebrating the players who have shaped the modern game while reflecting the enduring influence of the Professional Footballers’ Association. Founded in 1907, the PFA remains the world’s oldest professional sports trade union and has long championed the rights, wellbeing and future of players at every level of the sport. Marking the 50th anniversary of the awards offered a unique opportunity to celebrate not only footballing excellence, but also the extraordinary evolution of the game itself.
In partnership with the Professional Footballers’ Association, St James’s House was commissioned to produce 50 Years of the PFA Awards, a beautifully illustrated commemorative hardback honouring five decades of football history. Created to coincide with the landmark awards ceremony at The Lowry in Manchester, the publication combines striking design, compelling editorial and exceptional photography to capture the passion, drama and cultural significance of the sport. Written by acclaimed football journalist Harry Harris, the book was designed as a lasting tribute to the players, personalities and defining moments that have shaped English football.
Rich in insight and atmosphere, 50 Years of the PFA Awards charts the story of every award winner across five decades, while also exploring the wider social and cultural impact of the game. Featuring more than 200 images and exclusive interviews with legendary figures including Kenny Dalglish, Gary Lineker, Alan Shearer, Thierry Henry and Ruud van Nistelrooy, alongside commentary from Arsène Wenger, the book offers readers an intimate perspective on football’s greatest eras. Launched before an audience of football’s most celebrated names, the project stands as both a prestigious commemorative publication and a powerful reflection of the PFA’s enduring legacy.
