Peter Reid is one of the most colourful characters English football has ever produced.

A highly successful player and manager during a career spanning nearly five decades - and close friend of some of the game's biggest names - he wears his heart on his sleeve.

The fiercely proud Scouser grew up in the football breeding ground of Huyton and learned life lessons that carried him through a distinguished professional career. Brought up as a Red, but now Blue through and through, Reidy stands up for what he believes in.

He established himself as one of the leading midfielders of his era in an all-conquering Everton squad crammed with class and character. Named PFA Player of the Year in 1985, England recognition followed - and a World Cup date with destiny at the hand of a certain Diego Maradona. They were famous days.

As a manager, his journey took him from Manchester to Sunderland and India to Thailand, each step a voyage into the unknown. At Sunderland, two promotions to the Premier League made him a hero - and even got rival fans singing his name....

Told with typical honesty, Cheer Up Peter Reid is an uplifting tale of football, family, pride and hope. It is the story of a man who got to the top but never forgot his roots; who mixed with the powerful but was never afraid to challenge authority. His long-awaited autobiography will entertain, inspire and capture the imagination of true football fans far and wide.