Mascots, murder, mayhem and wigs – a glimpse into world of football anecdotes

The beautiful game is littered with beautifully strange, funny and famous tales. Journalist Nick Szczepanik has compiled many for his new book, Pulp Football. Here are five of Guardian Sport’s favourites

Perhaps the most notorious football mascot, and certainly one of the breed’s serial offenders, is Cyril the Swan. The 9ft Swansea City mascot’s antics have resulted in more than one four-figure fine from the Football League and even a touchline ban – usually a sanction reserved for errant managers and coaches.

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