Football information services: fanzines, “Match of the Day” and the modem

The character, growth and demand for football information services in England and Wales is examined. Questionnaires were sent to football clubs and supporters to investigate the quantity, quality and types of information services available, and whether the demand for football information is being met. It was found that there is more football information available than previously, through a wider range of services, and that demand for club information is growing. However, supporters feel the information is often of poor quality. The growth in football information services is attributed to the appeal of the game to non‐traditional supporters and the use of information services to market clubs as global “brands”. Democratic supporters movements have had a major influence on the development of football information services. The Internet is set to have a big impact.