True great Allen will bring the buzz back

I HAVE been a chief scout or assistant manager at three or four different clubs over the last 46 years, and have worked with many wonderful managers such as Malcolm Allison, Terry Venables, Gary Johnson and Alan Pardew.

Fifteen years ago, I was a very hands-on chief scout at Brentford, and we were heading for relegation at a rapid rate with seven or eight games left. Changes had to be made.

I suggested to the board that Martin Allen was the only man I could think of who could quickly change our season. In that short time he turned it all round, and we finished up staying in the division with a last-match win.

The following season he got us into the play-offs with the lowest budget in the division, and miraculously he did the same the following season. It was incredible!

Fans and players adored him and I am absolutely certain that by the end of this season Chesterfield fans will feel exactly the same.

I would put him up there with the other great managers above, so I would say to all those who may be wavering to fear not because you will soon be back enjoying the football you were a few seasons ago.

At 80, I am still scouting for Crystal Palace, but will always remember the good times he brought to Brentford. Back your manager, you are lucky to have a very special man in charge.