For those West Ham supporters of a similar age to me, many will recall a midfielder who also had a short spell at Brentford—the same Brentford who visit the London Stadium on Monday night.
Alan Dickens, born on 3rd September 1964 in Plaistow, carved out a career in English football during the 1980s and early 1990s. Known for his vision, technical ability, and tenacity in midfield, Dickens made his mark at West Ham United, Chelsea, and Brentford, before transitioning into non-league football and eventually coaching.
A local lad from East London, Dickens joined West Ham United as a schoolboy in 1975, training in the evenings while still attending school. His talent was evident early on, and he was part of the Hammers’ victorious 1981 FA Youth Cup-winning side, which also featured future stars like Paul Allen and Bobby Barnes.
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Dickens made his senior debut for West Ham on 18th December 1982, at just 18 years old, scoring in a 2–1 win over Notts County. Over the next seven seasons, he became a mainstay in the midfield, making 192 league appearances and scoring 23 goals. His performances earned him a cap for the England U21 team in 1984, and four appearances for the England Youth side between 1982 and 1983.
One of his most memorable moments came in April 1985, when he scored a stunning solo goal against Chelsea at Upton Park. Ironically, the Blues would later sign him in 1989, where he spent four seasons, making 48 league appearances and scoring once.
Dickens can often be found in West Ham London Stadium hospitality
During his time at Chelsea, Dickens had loan spells at other clubs, including a short stint at West Bromwich Albion in 1992, where he scored once in three appearances. In 1993, he joined Brentford on loan, making 15 appearances and scoring one goal.
I was in attendance at one of those games—Brentford’s 4–0 defeat to West Ham at Upton Park in April 1993. Former Arsenal and England international Kenny Sansom also featured for the Bees that day.
After leaving Chelsea, Dickens joined Colchester United for the 1993–94 season, making 32 appearances and scoring three goals. He then moved into non-league football, turning out for Chesham United, Hayes, Collier Row, Billericay Town, and Purfleet.
I once attended a Billericay Town match hoping to interview Alan for OLAS (Over Land & Sea), but he politely declined, wanting to focus on the future rather than his playing past.
As his footballing days wound down, Dickens began training to become a taxi driver—a profession he pursued alongside his continued involvement in the game. He later returned to coaching, managing Barking FC in 2012 and currently serves as assistant manager for Barking’s Under-23 side.
Alan Dickens may not have reached the heights of international stardom, but his career remains a testament to dedication, adaptability, and love for the beautiful game.