Alan Davidson

Born in Melbourne in 1960, Alan Davidson developed a passion for soccer as a youngster, joining junior soccer and playing with Altona City in the Victorian league before being signed by National League club South Melbourne for the 1979 NSL season.

In 1979 he represented Victoria and then Australia in the World Under 19 championships, attracting the attention of senior clubs.

Fast and skilful, Davidson developed into a sweeper, fullback or midfielder in a career marked by versatility.

In 1980 he toured Europe with the Socceroos and was signed by English club Nottingham Forest.

Davidson was a first team regular with Forest until back injuries affected his play.

He represented Australia in three World Cup campaigns, the 1988 Olympic Games and was a key player in Australia’s 1988 Gold Cup Bicentennial win in Sydney.

He retired as Socceroo captain after 76 matches, 50 of those as 'A' internationals and scored two goals.