GP Books

‘Training with Wolves’ is different to most publications in that it tells the story of the almost unknown Wolves trainer, Jack Davies. Whilst Jack Davies, might not be a name known to most Wolves supporters, it is hard to believe that a servant to the club for some 58 years would have gone almost unnoticed for so long.

The book picks up Jack’s story from his military service during the First World War, to being appointed as assistant trainer at the club in 1920, right through his Wolves career up to the 1970’s. The book features previously unpublished photographs and revelations that will surprise Wolves supporters, including how if it had not been for the influence of Jack Davies both Stan Cullis and Billy Wright might never have played for Wolves
Speaking about the book, Jack’s grandson Merv says: “I am very pleased with the way our book has turned out. It is quite remarkable how our writing styles have gelled together, we have collaborated on many sections of the book and it is virtually impossible to see which of us has written which part. Initially we set out to produce a book that was an interesting read of Jack’s journey through nearly sixty years of Wolves history. He was one of very few people who witnessed and affected the rise of our beloved club during this important period. Our main aim was to give Jack the credit he deserves for his outstanding contribution to the history and success of Wolverhampton Wanderers.

“I am delighted with the book that Tim Gibbons and I have produced. It has turned out to be exactly how I hoped. The many tributes from former players have captured the true essence of Jack. Every one tells us it is a very interesting story and are fascinated by the many interesting ‘tales from the boot room’ that we have included. We hope it will appeal to the ever-growing number of Wolves fans both home and abroad”.

Tim adds: “Whilst I never met Jack Davies, his story has been a pleasure to tell. I hope that this book has ensured his achievements and dedication to Wolverhampton Wanderers Football Club are acknowledged.”

The late Bert Williams MBE wrote the foreword for the book in 2011, three years before his death. It is fitting that Bert, who helped to raise a staggering amount in excess of £200,000 for the Alzheimer’s society charity, that both authors will be donating profits from the book. It gives an insight into to how highly Jack was thought of by the Wolves players:

“His love of the club was obvious for all to see, men like Jack Davies do not come along very often.” Bert Williams MBE, Wolves and England goalkeeper.”

The book contains stories about Jack Davies from many Wolves legends including, Stan Cullis, Billy Wright, Mike Bailey, Derek Dougan, Geoff Palmer, Kenny Hibbitt and many more.