Q & A with Archie Macpherson

CAILEAN GALLAGHER is a political activist and academic with a strong background in both labor organising and political theory. He pursued his higher education at the prestigious University of Oxford, where he not only excelled in his studies but also founded the Oxford Left Review, a publication focused on left-wing political analysis and debate. His commitment to progressive politics was further demonstrated through his involvement in organizing efforts for the Yes Scotland campaign, which advocated for Scottish independence during the 2014 referendum.
Following his work with Yes Scotland, Cailean transitioned to serving as a Labour and trade union organiser, dedicating his efforts to advancing workers' rights and supporting the party’s socialist wing. He then worked closely with a socialist Labour Member of Parliament, where he played a pivotal role in shaping policy and engaging with constituents on key political issues.

Countdown to Scotland's first game against Haiti in the 2026 FIFA World Cup (UK time).
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Here’s to the players who wear the shirt, thank you for giving us something worth rallying behind, and here’s to the supporters who kept believing even when we were out in the wilderness.
28 years of heartbreak are over, Scotland are back in the World Cup. With a pen dipped in passion, McNeill explores the emotional landscape of football, bringing to life the highs and lows, triumphs and tribulations that define the beautiful game in Scotland.
Praise for We Are Scottish Football:
In this unique and vivid collection of poems and photographs Julie McNeill makes sure we don’t forget the impact our footballing history has had on the world. STUART COSGROVE, author & presenter
A must read for any fan of football, history, poetry and Scotland. IAN MAXWELL, CEO SFA
In this wonderful book of poems and photographs Julie McNeill ties together the past and present of the game and highlights some of its outstanding moments, personalities and controversies. ROSE REILLY MBE, World Cup Winning Footballer
A poetic tribute, capturing the soul-stirring drama and devotion that make Scottish football an enduring and enchanting spectacle. PAUL ENGLISH, The Herald
Timely and well-written by a fine poet [who] acknowledges the popular roots of the male game while inflecting these through a modern female gaze. ALISTAIR FINDLAY, Morning Star
JULIE McNEILL, poet, author and workshop facilitator, specialises in creative writing workshops and talks, focusing on mental
health and supporting individuals with additional needs. Author of Mission Dyslexia and two poetry collections, she’s the Poet in Residence for St Mirren FC Charitable Foundation and the Makar for The Scottish Women’s National Football Team Poets Society. Her performances include notable events like Wigtown Book Festival and StAnza International Poetry Festival.