by Alan McGuinness

Martin Allen has been officially named as new Gillingham boss - his seventh club managerial appointment.

Allen, who turns 47 next month, four days before the Gills begin their season at home to Bradford, was most recently in charge of Barnet for a three game spell at the end of last season - his third stint in charge at Underhill.

After replacing Lawrie Sanchez, Allen oversaw two wins in that time, including a final day 2-1 victory over Burton Albion which kept Barnet in the League.

Allen is widely known in the game as 'Mad Dog' and renowned for using unconventional methods.

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He made almost 200 appearances in midfield for West Ham during his playing career, which began with five years at QPR, and also received two England under-21 caps in 1986/87.

Chairman Paul Scally said he was 'delighted' that Martin Allen has agreed to take over as Gillingham manager after an exhaustive selection process which lasted more than two months.

The Gills chairman unveiled signing this afternoon, and predicted: "He's going to be an interesting man to work with."

Mr Scally revealed former boss Andy Hessenthaler had been involved in the appointment, taking part in a unanimous vote among board members, and helping to choose him from more than 60 applicants.