'Wacka' deals with highs and lows in new football book

Called 'Size isn't everything' - the title is appropriate for someone who unusually for a goalkeeper is under six feet tall - but he is a giant of the game, having played nearly 500 games in a 15-year-career, including 406 for Walsall.

And whilst there are plenty of laughs in the book it also addresses the problems players face dealing with injury and health issues post career as well as forging a living when the football is finished.

In Jimmy's case, he always played with a smile on his face and continues to as a coach, but like his website, the book focusses partly on the darker side of the industry, addressing issues such as mental and physical health, addictions and financial restraints.

It was launched last Friday, published by Aldridge based Excel Print and distributed by  nearby Curtis Sport and it has already been well received.

Jimmy said: “It’s got the football, it’s got the highs, the lows and everything you wouldn’t see normally from inside a changing room, as well as personal things from me and the players.

"I address the issues which can affect players on my website and part of the book is a continuation or a focus on that but obviously there are plenty of funny stories in it because that is a lot of what people want to read as well as the serious stuff.

"I am lucky I have continued in the game and got into coaching which I love though nothing beats playing, but others aren't as fortunate and struggle after the highs of a football career to adapt almost into another life."

Jimmy helps run the JW23Foundation along with fellow former professionals Dean Ashton, Anton Ferdinand and Rufus Brevett. It provides mental and physical support and guidance for ex footballers.

He will be promoting the book at forthcoming Walsall games and it will be available shortly at the club shop or by ordering online from www.jw23,org/book or https://www.curtis-sport.com/online-store/Size-Isnt-Everything-Jimmy-Walker-p701857494