Alan joined Aston Villa as a 15-year old and made his 1st team debut in the 1959-60 season. He became a regular in the Villa side in 1960-61 season and became a League Cup winner the following season. Alan went on to captain the Villa team making over 230 appearances in total and scoring 9 goals.
He was a left sided wing half, making several apperances for the England U23 side as well as competing for the his position with one Bobby Moore!

After leaving Aston Villa in 1969, Alan played at Walsall until 1972, making over 50 appearances for the Sadlers. He moved to Tamworth then joined Pelsall Villa in 1976, playing for the Villians for 2 years.