In his playing career he was known as 'Mad Dog', he played for Queens Park Rangers, signing professional in 1983 and spending six years at Loftus Road and played in the 1986 League Cup Final against Oxford United, before a £670,000 move to West Ham United. He played in their promotion teams of 1991 and 1993.

Allen stayed with the Hammers until 1995 when he made a £500,000 switch to Portsmouth after a successful loan spell at Fratton Park. After three frustrating years with Pompey, which took in a brief loan stint at Southend United, he hung up his boots and began a coaching career. He was a combative midfield player.

His cousins, Paul Allen, Bradley Allen and Clive Allen were also footballers, as was his uncle Les Allen. His father Dennis Allen played for Reading as well as Charlton Athletic and Bournemouth and died in 1995 at the age of 56.

Martin is now a great after dinner speaker, speaking at events up and down the country, this no nonsense footballer tells you just how it is.

To Book Martin Allen call Soccer Speaker on 01704 834493 or 07799720483