The Greatest Football Merger That Never Was?

In this week's episode of *By Far The Greatest Team*, hosts Graham Dunn and Jamie Rooney dive deep into one of football's most controversial what-ifs—the proposed merger between Oxford United and Reading FC in 1983, masterminded by the notorious media mogul Robert Maxwell.

Maxwell's audacious plan to unite the two rival clubs under the name *Thames Valley Royals* sparked outrage among fans, who saw the proposal as an attack on their footballing heritage. The episode uncovers the passionate SOS campaigns launched by both sets of supporters, fighting tooth and nail to preserve their club's identity.

But why did this merger, which seemed almost certain, eventually fall apart? Graham and Jamie unravel the story of how the deal was derailed by disastrous decisions from Reading's directors and the detective work of local hero Roger Smee.

The discussion also broadens out to examine other attempts at merging football clubs, highlighting the tribal and emotional bonds that make such mergers so challenging.

Tune in to explore the legacy of the Thames Valley Royals —a cautionary tale that serves as a powerful reminder of the deep-seated resistance to blending footballing identities.

Don't miss this gripping episode, available now on all major podcast platforms!

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