His club career started at West Ham United as an apprentice in 1974, before moving to substitute for Everton at aged 16. In the following year, Alan’s first team debut resulted in him being chosen for the West Ham youth team alongside Alvin Martin, Geoff Pike, and Paul Brush.
In 1975, Alan’s first win with the club, and his first goal, came during a 2-1 home win over Newcastle in October. With such an impressive start, he was nicknamed “Whizz” by his teammate Pat Holland. At age 18, Alan featured in both legs of the West Ham's European Cup Winners' Cup 3rd round tie against Den Haag in 1976. Overall, during his substitute career, he made two league and cup appearances between 1974 and 1975, eighteen appearances between 1975 and 1976, twelve appearances between 1976 and 1977, and thirty-six appearances between 1977 and 1978.
For a fee of £225,000, Alan then transferred to Birmingham City in 1979, before moving to Aston Villa in 1983 and Charlton Athletic in 1984. At Charlton Athletic, Alan helped to promote them to Division 1 in 1985-86. He then transferred to Brighton & Hove to help them win promotion to the Second Division as Third Division runners-up in his first season, in 1987.
Alan’s management career consisted mainly at Charlton Athletic and West Ham United. Alongside Steve Gritt, Alan replaced Lennie Lawrence in 1991. After taking sole command in 1995, Alan was the mastermind behind the club’s revival, securing two promotions and consolidation into the Premier League. After a short spell as a TV pundit, he managed West Ham United to seven wins out of nine games.
Whilst public speaking, audiences revel at Alan’s insightful footballing knowledge and dedication to the sport. Witty, charismatic and insightful, he takes guests on a journey through the life of a true footballing legend, from his time as an apprentice to managing major clubs. His topics range from peak performance to mental resilience - an event featuring Alan Curbishley is one not to be missed.
