Many British Asians play football at an amateur level, but only a very few have achieved professional status. Representing the first major study into this issue, this book examines the real-life experiences of British Asians in football, and considers the reasons for their marginal place in the British national game. Based on original ethnographic research, this work explores key issues for debate, including: stereotyping, cultural assumptions and popular explanations for British Asian under-representation; racism in English football, the impact of 9/11 and rising Islamophobia; the experiences of British Asian professional players - life, lifestyle and identity; expressions of masculinity in young British Asian culture; the meaning of sport - 'race', nation, culture and citizenship; institutional and policy responses to racism and inequality - clubs, governing bodies and campaigns. Presenting original research into a largely neglected area of study, British Asians and Football offers new insight into what it means to be young, male, British and Asian. For students, researchers, and policymakers interested in the sociology and politics of 'race', identity, social values and sport, this is essential reading. Book jacket.