Player #48 for Aston Villa, Albert Arthur Allen, played as a forward for the club. Albert represented Villa between 1887-88 and 1890-91.

Albert was born in Aston, less than a mile from the current Villa ground, on 7th April 1864 and made his debut as a 23 year old on 15th October 1887.

Villa had signed Albert from St. Phillips FC and he went on to represent the club over three seasons.

A goalscoring sensation who burst onto the Villa scene in the inaugural league season of 1888-89.

Sadly Albert’s talent and potential was taken away due to illness.

The Villa News and Record of 1st September 1906 paid tribute to Albert:

“A light, but most effective wing player, with a good turn of speed. Lack of weight and size did not affect his pluck. Dribbled like an artist and shot with force and good aim. Always did well in big games and was seen to special advantage in his international. A modest, unassuming player, whom it was a pleasure to meet.”

Albert’s final game for Villa came on 26th December 1890 aged 25 having played under the George Ramsay led Management Committee.

Albert passed away on 13th October 1899 in Birmingham aged just 35.