Black and Blue: How Racism, Drugs and Cancer Almost Destroyed Me – Paul Canoville
Synopsis
Paul Canovilles story is one of extreme racist bigotry, shattering career-ending injury, a decline into drug abuse, battles against cancer, family tragedy and a determination to beat the odds. Canoville was Chelsea’s first black first-team player, making his debut in 1982. But as he warmed up on the touchline, his own supporters began chanting ‘We don’t want the nigger!’ The racist bile continued whenever he played, but within a year he had won over the terraces with his explosive pace and skill. Canoville fell out with the Chelsea board and moved to Reading in 1986, where injury suddenly ended his career at the age of 24. This started a downward spiral including the death of his baby in his arms, two bouts of life-threatening lymph cancer, drug abuse and homelessness. But Canoville fought back. In this explosive and shocking story, Paul finally explains why, despite everything, he is more positive than ever and has remained a fervent Chelsea fan all his life. This is a story of hope – eventually – overcoming adversity.Review
‘one of the most powerful sports books ever written…an exceptional account of an extraordinary man’ (Pat Nevin, Chelseafc.com )
‘unputdownable’ (Observer )
‘a compelling read skilfully put together’ (Mirror )
‘compelling’ (Henry Winter, Daily Telegraph )
If I tell you that Paul Canoville was Chris Norman’s (from Chelsea FanCast) favourite player growing up, it might make you wonder what all the fuss was about. But, this was a player who was consistently racially abused by his own fans. Thankfully, we have moved on from those dark days, and that is in no small part down to ‘Canner’s’ bravery as a man and a footballer. But that was just the start. To say that this is one of the most emotional and moving autobiographies I have ever read, on football or any other subject, would still be an understatement. Canners story defies belief – how one man can face so many problems and still come back fighting is genuinely inspirational. It also puts in perspective a few games lost here and there. I would love to get Paul on the show – it would be a real honour for all of us, especially those who were lucky enough to see him play, particularly in the 4:4 against Sheffield Wednesday.
About the Author
Paul Canoville was born in Hillingdon, London. Starting out playing for non-league Hillingdon Borough, Canoville signed for Chelsea in 1981. He made his debut against Crystal Palace in April 1982 aged 20. He joined Reading in 1986, where his career ended due to injury. Paul Canoville lives in London.
