I first encountered “The Damned United” a few years back now when I read the book after borrowing it from a Leeds United fan who was very passionate in hate for Brian Clough, because of what he done in such a short time at the club. 44 days in fact. The book was a fantastic read, written in a very interesting method. I had told a few people who are football fans that they should read the book. That was before I had even heard that a film was being made. I was very excited to hear when it was announced a film would be made.

Then to see Michael Sheen was taking on the role of Cloughie. They really could not have found a better actor to take the role. Sheen was incredible as Tony Blair in “The Queen” and as David Frost in “Frost/Nixon” so how incredible for him to eventually take to centre stage as one of the greatest characters to ever grace the world of football.

I have now seen the trailer a few times in the cinema now and really think this is the film I am most anticipating over the next few months. The support cast is fantastic as well, including Colm Meany taking on the role of Don Revie(I had the privilege to see Meany in the play “Moon For the Misbegotten” with him playing opposite Kevin Spacey in 2007, and he was incredible). Timothy Spall portraying Peter Taylor, Cloughie’s right hand man and Jim Broadbent as Derby County’s chairman Sam Longson.

Today, I saw the poster for the first time and think its really well put together.

“They love me for what I’m not . . . . . . they hate me for what I am” Brian Clough

I just think having that quote on the poster really explains Cloughie. This film really does have the potential to become the best films about football, as I cant think of any that are actually brilliant. Lets hope it has a wide release across the UK.

Release Date: 27th March 2009