Clive Allen

A recipient of both the prestigious PFA Players’ Player of the Year and Football Writers’ Association Footballer of the Year awards in 1987, Clive Allen’s career is marked by exceptional goal-scoring ability and significant contributions to top-tier football clubs. Allen commenced his professional journey with Queens Park Rangers in the late 1970s, making his league debut in November 1978 against Chelsea. He quickly established himself as a prolific forward, netting an impressive 32 league goals in just 49 appearances for the club, including a notable hat-trick on his full debut. This early success led to a significant move to Arsenal in 1980 for a fee of £1.25 million.

Following his standout period at Tottenham, Allen ventured internationally to Bordeaux in France, where he scored 13 goals in 19 league games during the 1988-89 season. He subsequently returned to England, with spells at Manchester City from 1989 to 1991, and Chelsea in the 1991-92 season. From 1992 to 1994, Allen played for West Ham United, where his 14 goals in the 1992-93 season were vital in securing the club’s promotion to the Premier League. His distinguished playing career concluded with brief stints at Millwall and Carlisle United.

In 1997, Allen expanded his athletic pursuits, transitioning to American football as a placekicker for the London Monarchs in NFL Europe, showcasing his versatility as an athlete. Today, Clive Allen leverages his extensive football knowledge and experience as a respected football commentator. He provides expert analysis for various sports networks, including ESPN and BT Sport, covering major European leagues such as Ligue 1 and the Bundesliga, as well as prominent European club competitions.