The Gillingham fans have given new boss Martin Allen a rousing reception at Priestfield during pre-season but the man himself admits to being embarrassed by the adulation.

Allen (picture), nicknamed Mad Dog during his playing days, said: "I always find it a bit embarrassing when I walk out and everyone claps me before the game. I just look at the floor and try and be polite.

"I’m not being rude, it’s just a bit embarrassing. For me, it’s just another game of football and all these people turn up and start clapping – which I guess is better than them booing!

"I had to walk all the way along the side of the pitch to the dug-out and all the supporters stood up to clap me (on Saturday). I wasn’t expecting that.

"I was just trying to sneak in quietly and sit in my chair and watch the match. I found it embarrassing and I wasn’t expecting it. It was nice though of course."