50 years of hurt never stopped me dreaming

I have a rather odd relationship with t-shirts. There aren’t many I like, they’re often too garish, too plain, too big or two small. I don’t often find one I like and when I do, they fall into two categories: Offensive Slogans and Heavy Metal Band Shirts.

So why am I writing a blog about a t-shirt? Indeed, what authority am I on the subject? I’ll tell you, I’m a fussy Englishman and a fussy Englishman is rarely happy with a product, so when they are, it is worth listening to them. Quite honestly, I am happy with this one.

I came home from a bad day at the office and was welcomed by a box from the Art of Football. A shirt from their new “50 years of hurt” collection. An inspired selection that captures English footballing history from ’66 to now. Iconic moments and classic line-ups enshrined in beautiful art on a shirt.

I eagerly opened the packaging and lifted the lid on the box; wrapped in paper decorated with historic news clipping with a card attached laid my shirt. I turned into a kid again and forgot the day’s anxieties and immediately tried it on. That’s what this line does to you; it helps you recapture that joy and excitement you felt, experiencing the moments illustrated on the shirt. I may not be old enough to remember Hurst’s goal that was on mine, but the line “They think it’s all over… it is now” is one of my favourite sporting quotes and always brings a smile to my face.

Coming home to this shirt made my day.

As regards the shirt itself, I felt the quality of the materials was good and the digital transfer technology they use to render the images on to the material seems to be cutting edge, meaning a long lasting garment. I’d ordered a medium size and it looked good on me. My art student sister, who loathes to praise anything of mine, raved about the look, style and artwork. High praise if you know her.

I think that is where this line excels, it has universal appeal, you could wear it in the pub watching football and it would show your support but also, it wouldn’t look out of place at a barbecue or visiting your in-laws. They are shirts for Euro 2016 and also for summer 2016.

If you were buying this as a gift for Father’s day coming up, or simply as a gift for someone in your life I would highly recommend it. This isn’t simply because it is a nice shirt, which it is, but also because of the presentation. The Art of Football clearly care about the shirts they send you, the effort taken in wrapping them in paper and the little card are a touch of class. The evidence that they care, is in turn evidence that you care about the person you are gifting.

Whether you are buying this for yourself or someone else, don’t settled for mass produced, poor quality or tacky items as some other retailers have. Buy something unique, something made with care and feels classy, buy something from the “50 years of hurt” line or their artists, international or club range.

But hey, don’t take my word for it, read this review and see how this t-shirt saved his family from WWIII.

I shall wear mine with pride as I cheer England on. 50 years of hurt hasn’t stopped me dreaming but I’ll undoubtedly watch another glorious failure from England. I’m an Arsenal fan though, so I’m used to it.

Until the next time.

Adieu.

Michael Greene

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