Alvin Martin is one of those footballers whose name still means a great deal to West Ham United supporters. The former English defender spent almost 20 years playing for the London club, building a career around hard work, loyalty and strong defending. Born on 29 July 1958 in Liverpool, England, Martin became an important part of West Ham’s history during the 1980s and 1990s.
He helped the club win the 1980 FA Cup, played in the remarkable 1985–86 season and represented England at the 1986 FIFA World Cup. He also achieved something few defenders could imagine, scoring three goals against three different goalkeepers in one match. Beyond his playing career, Martin worked as a football manager and sports pundit, while his sons, David and Joe Martin, followed him into professional football.
Quick Bio
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Alvin Edward Martin |
| Known As | Alvin Martin |
| Date of Birth | 29 July 1958 |
| Age | 68 years old (as of 2026) |
| Birthplace | Liverpool, England |
| Nationality | British |
| Profession | Former Footballer, Manager and Sports Pundit |
| Playing Position | Central Defender |
| Famous For | Long Career with West Ham United |
| Main Football Club | West Ham United (1976–1996) |
| International Team | England National Football Team |
| International Caps | 17 |
| Major Achievements | 1980 FA Cup Winner, 1986 FIFA World Cup Squad |
| Children | David Martin and Joe Martin |
Early Life and Childhood in Liverpool
Alvin Edward Martin was born in Liverpool and grew up in an area where football was an important part of everyday life. Like many young boys on Merseyside, he developed an interest in the game at an early age. He played school football and began attracting attention because of his ability as a defender.
His early football journey included time with Everton, one of Liverpool’s major clubs. However, his future took a different direction when he left Everton’s youth set-up. After a trial with Queens Park Rangers, he was given an opportunity at West Ham United in 1974.
Moving away from Liverpool was a major change for a teenager hoping to become a professional footballer. At West Ham, Martin worked his way through the youth system and learned from experienced coaches. He signed professional terms in 1976, before making his first-team debut against Aston Villa in March 1978.
The Beginning of His West Ham United Career
When Alvin Martin joined West Ham’s senior team, the club already had a strong football tradition. Young players were expected to work hard, understand the game and earn their place in the team. Martin gradually developed into a dependable central defender who could handle the pressure of professional football.
His playing style was built around strong tackling, intelligent positioning and physical determination. He was also comfortable organising the players around him, an important quality for someone playing in the centre of defence.
Martin’s partnership with experienced footballers, including Billy Bonds, helped him develop further. As the years passed, he became one of the club’s most trusted players. He was not simply someone who stopped attacks. He also gave the team confidence through his leadership and willingness to take responsibility.
Winning the 1980 FA Cup With West Ham
One of the biggest achievements of Martin’s career came in 1980, when West Ham United reached the FA Cup final against Arsenal. West Ham were playing in the Second Division at the time, while Arsenal were an established First Division side.
The final took place at Wembley Stadium on 10 May 1980. West Ham won the match 1–0, thanks to a first-half header from Trevor Brooking. Martin played an important role in the defence, helping his team protect its narrow lead against strong opposition.
Winning the FA Cup was a special achievement for both the club and its supporters. It also marked an important stage in Martin’s development as a professional footballer. The following season, West Ham won the Second Division championship and returned to the top level of English football.
The Remarkable 1985–86 Football Season
The 1985–86 season remains one of the most celebrated periods in West Ham United’s history. Under manager John Lyall, the team challenged some of England’s biggest clubs and finished third in the First Division. It remains West Ham’s highest league finish.
Alvin Martin was a key part of that successful side, alongside players such as Tony Cottee, Frank McAvennie, Alan Devonshire and Tony Gale. While Cottee and McAvennie attracted attention for scoring goals, Martin and his defensive teammates provided much of the strength behind the team’s success.
West Ham finished behind Liverpool and Everton, but their performances gave supporters plenty to celebrate. For Martin, the season was another important achievement in a career that had already included major trophies and international football.
Alvin Martin’s Historic Hat-Trick Against Newcastle
One of the most unusual moments in English football history happened on 21 April 1986, when West Ham United defeated Newcastle United 8–1 at the Boleyn Ground. Alvin Martin scored three goals, which was remarkable enough for a central defender.
What made the achievement even more extraordinary was that each goal came against a different goalkeeper. Newcastle’s regular goalkeeper, Martin Thomas, was injured during the game. Outfield players Chris Hedworth and Peter Beardsley then took turns playing in goal.
Martin scored his first two goals with headers before completing his hat-trick from the penalty spot against Beardsley. With the crowd encouraging him, teammate Ray Stewart allowed Martin to take the penalty.
It was a moment that became part of football history. Although Martin was known mainly for preventing goals, this match gave him a record that supporters still talk about decades later. His hat-trick remains one of the most memorable achievements of his West Ham career.
Playing for England at the 1986 FIFA World Cup
Alvin Martin’s impressive club performances also earned him opportunities with the England national football team. He made his international debut against Brazil at Wembley in May 1981, beginning a career that eventually brought him 17 England caps.
He missed the 1982 World Cup because of injury, but his performances helped him secure a place in Bobby Robson’s squad for the 1986 FIFA World Cup in Mexico.
Martin played in England’s 3–0 victory over Paraguay in the round of 16, replacing the suspended Terry Fenwick in defence. England progressed to the quarter-finals, where they faced Argentina and Diego Maradona.
Martin was not selected for that match, which England lost 2–1. Although his World Cup appearances were limited, representing his country in such an important tournament remained a major achievement in his football career.
His Final Playing Years and Retirement
Alvin Martin remained with West Ham through successful seasons, difficult periods and changes in English football. His long service was unusual in a sport where players often moved between clubs.
He stayed at West Ham after their relegation in 1989 and was part of the club’s efforts to return to the top division. Even as the team changed, Martin continued to represent the experience and leadership that supporters valued.
After nearly two decades in West Ham’s first team, he left the club in 1996. He then joined Leyton Orient, where he spent the final part of his professional playing career before retiring in 1997.
By that stage, he had made nearly 600 first-team appearances for West Ham in all competitions, establishing himself as one of the club’s longest-serving and most respected defenders.
Alvin Martin’s Career as a Football Manager
After retiring as a player, Martin decided to remain involved in football through management. He became manager of Southend United in 1997, taking charge during a difficult period in the club’s history.
Managing a football team brought different responsibilities from playing. Martin had to make decisions about team selection, tactics, training and results while dealing with the pressure of supporters’ expectations.
Southend struggled during his time in charge and suffered relegation from the Second Division in 1998. The following season also proved difficult, and Martin resigned in March 1999.
Although his managerial career did not bring the same success as his playing days, it gave him experience of football from another perspective.
Working as a Football Pundit
Following his time in management, Alvin Martin moved into football broadcasting. His experience as a former player and manager made him a familiar voice to supporters who wanted to understand the game beyond the final score.
He became known for his work with talkSPORT, where he contributed as a pundit and co-commentator. He also appeared on television football programmes, including Sky Sports discussions.
Martin could speak about defending, leadership, team performances and the challenges of professional football from his own experience. His broadcasting work helped him remain connected to the sport after his playing career had ended.
Alvin Martin’s Family and Children
Football has remained an important part of the Martin family. Alvin Martin is the father of David Martin and Joe Martin, both of whom pursued professional football careers.
David became a goalkeeper and played for clubs including Milton Keynes Dons, Millwall and West Ham United. Joe followed a different path, playing as a defender for several English clubs.
One particularly emotional family moment came in November 2019, when David made his Premier League debut for West Ham against Chelsea. He kept a clean sheet as West Ham won 1–0 at Stamford Bridge.
After the match, David went into the stands to embrace his father. For Alvin, watching his son represent the same club where he had spent so much of his career was a special experience. The moment showed how strongly football connected the two generations of the family.
Why Alvin Martin Remains a West Ham Legend
There are several reasons why Alvin Martin continues to hold an important place in West Ham United’s history. His long service is one, but his achievements and attitude on the pitch are equally significant.
He was part of the club’s 1980 FA Cup-winning team, helped secure the 1981 Second Division title and played in the famous side that finished third in 1986. He was also named Hammer of the Year three times, in 1980, 1982 and 1983.
Perhaps his greatest contribution was his consistency. Across changing managers, teammates and league positions, Martin remained a respected figure at the club. His career is still remembered by supporters who value players with a lasting connection to their team.
Conclusion
Alvin Martin’s football career is remembered for much more than appearances and trophies. He helped West Ham United enjoy some of its finest moments, represented England on the world stage and achieved one of football’s most unusual hat-tricks.
His journey from a young player in Liverpool to a respected West Ham defender shows the value of dedication and hard work. Through his achievements, broadcasting career and family’s continued involvement in football, Martin remains an important figure in English football history.
(FAQs)
Who is Alvin Martin?
Alvin Martin is a former English professional footballer, manager and sports pundit. He is best known for his long career as a central defender with West Ham United.
How old is Alvin Martin?
Alvin Martin was born on 29 July 1958 in Liverpool, England. He is 68 years old as of October 2026.
How many England caps did Alvin Martin earn?
Alvin Martin earned 17 international caps for England between 1981 and 1986. He also represented England at the 1986 FIFA World Cup in Mexico.
Did Alvin Martin score a hat-trick against three goalkeepers?
Yes. On 21 April 1986, Martin scored three goals against three different goalkeepers during West Ham’s 8–1 victory over Newcastle United.
Who are Alvin Martin’s sons?
Alvin Martin’s sons are David Martin and Joe Martin. David played professionally as a goalkeeper, while Joe built his football career as a defender.
