Allen Resigns as Manager of North Leigh

North Leigh, relegated to the Pitching In Southern League Division One Central after a brave effort to avoid the drop after one season at Step 3 level, have received the disappointing news that manager Chris Allen has resigned.

Allen almost pulled off a `great escape` after taking over from Eddie Odhiambo in late November 2022.

The 50-year-old holds a UEFA Pro Licence, the highest coaching qualification in the country, and coaches at Coventry City under-21s.

Allen made more than 150 appearances for Oxford United, before moving to Premier League side Nottingham Forest, Port Vale, Stockport County, Brighton & Hove Albion, Dover Athletic and Aldershot Town.

During his time with the U’s, he played for England at under-21 level.

Allen later played for North Leigh, and has previously been involved in a coaching capacity.

In October 2020, Allen left as first team coach at Oxford United.

He initially coached the academy from under-9s to under-16s, before taking over the under-18 side and progressing through to work with the first team, then under Michael Appleton.

Allen was part of the backroom staff when the club won promotion from League Two in the 2016/17 season.

He also runs his own coaching consultancy business.

North Leigh Web Site