It may seem hard to believe now, but there was a time when Tottenham Hotspur were by far and away the best football team in the country. That time was the early 1960s, and one of their star players was the Musselburgh-born John White. The Ghost Of White Hart Lane simultaneously tells the story of White, who tragically died aged 27 after being struck by lightning, and his son Rob, who was only five months old at the time. The interweaving narratives traverse both John’s ascent to football stardom against the odds, and Rob’s coming to terms with having never known his dad. It’s poignant and sweet, with a few laughs scattered throughout, especially for true devotees of the beautiful game. 

It’s an engaging enough story that doesn’t require an understanding of the offside rule in order to appreciate. Football obviously plays a key part, but it’s used as a framing device for exploring deeper issues such as changing attitudes around masculinity. Cal Newman, who plays both John and Rob, is a compelling and energetic performer, although his Scottish accent may be questioned by those more familiar with the haar of Edinburgh and its surroundings. Nevertheless, this is an emotive piece about male fragility, and learning to come to terms with who you are as a person. 

The Ghost Of White Hart Lane, Underbelly Bristo Square, until 26 August, 1.25pm.