Whilst we are late in posting this notice, Barnsley Football Club and its fanbase are deeply saddened to learn of Alan's passing and we wish to pass on our condolences to his family and friends. Born in 1955, Alan joined Aston Villa as an Apprentice, before moving on to Southend, where he made over 100 appearances. He then joined The Reds at Oakwell in 1977. In his two year spell with us he wore the red shirt on 91 occasions, scoring 14 goals. In that time Alan was loved by our fans and respected by fellow players for his driving midfield leadership and tough tackling, no-nonsense attitude. When he pulled on our shirt he never gave less than 100% commitment on the field. Had there been a brick wall on the pitch, Alan would have battered it down to win the ball when playing for Barnsley. Spells at Doncaster Rovers, Torquay United, Halifax Town and Hartlepool United followed, with a coaching role at the latter leading into a future career in management. Alan was assistant manager at York City before stepping into the hot seat in 1993, leading them to promotion to the Second Division via the play-offs in his first season. Alan left the game in 2002. Rest in Peace Alan and thank you. Alumni number - 747. Continue reading...
Hopefully this is a sign of things improving from the club, disrespectful to begin with but hopefully now it doesn't happen again. RIP Alan
Shamefully late. But better late than never. R.I.P. Alan. The hardest Barnsley player I've ever seen.
RIP Alan. "Animal" was always going to be how you will be recalled as. Great football brain in there, as well as the 100% passion. Fond memories.
A fitting Tribute now, RIP Alan, loved watching him back in the day, 100% Red when he was playing for us.
It’s good that this has been sorted out at last. Let’s hope this is a clean slate and the club are now on top of things. On a personal level Alan was my first football hero. I loved him as a kid. In my memory he got sent off every game but was always man of the match. When he left the club it genuinely was my first heartbreak. Sleep well Alan.
Great player in his time with us. The delay in the club commenting on this really is inexcusable. The fact that it was inexcusable was flagged up on here weeks ago and yet it's still taken an age for them to respond even when the situation was pointed out to them.
