On October 14th, 2010, football lost one of its largest characters: Malcolm Allison.
Perhaps the most memorable figure in Crystal Palace history, Allison became iconic in south London despite leading the Eagles through consecutive relegations.
But his charisma, coaching ability and rebranding of the club endeared him to Palace fans over three eventful seasons. Affectionately known as Big Mal, Allison is fondly remembered 10 years after his death. Here, former players Jim Cannon, Peter Taylor and Martin Hinshelwood recall the great manager’s Palace days.
“Everybody was in awe of him when he walked through the door,” says Jim Cannon, casting his mind back to March 1973.