MARTIN Allen returns to Brentford for the first time as an opposition manager on Saturday hoping to steer non-League Eastleigh into the FA Cup fourth round for the first time in their history.

It promises to be the sort of occasion the former Bees boss thrives on – yet it was not so long ago that the charismatic 51-year-old feared he might have to quit football for health reasons.

Having gone for his annual summer check-up organised by the League Managers Association, Allen was shocked when tests showed up a problem with his heart.

"When I went for the test at the St Georges Park Centre in Burton, I didn't know anything was wrong," he said.

“But there was a problem with the readings on the screen which I needed to get checked out with cardiologists and, as you can imagine, the drive back down was worrying.

“I had various tests with different consultants and I’ve got to go back in two months for another check.

“I feel fine, but I’m not allowed to do too much exercise and was told to lose weight. I’ve lost three-quarters of a stone, but it’s not that easy to lose weight when you can’t do any exercise apart from walking.”

Asked if concerns about his health had swayed his decision to leave League Two Barnet and accept the challenge of quenching Eastleigh’s raging thirst for League football, Allen said: “I’d done two-and-a-half years at Barnet and I was delighted with what I did there, but it was time to take on a new challenge.

“It was a consideration, though, whilst at Barnet that I’d have to quit football altogether and do something else.”

Allen has not had the easiest first month at Eastleigh, sorting out a squad that had lost its direction, but a huge smile spreads across his face as he reflects on his brief time as a Spitfire – and, in particular, his blossoming relationship with chairman Stewart Donald.

“I’ve absolutely loved it!” he beamed. “I love the chairman’s enthusiasm and his positive attitude. He’s always supportive and encouraging.

“He explained that it’s a big project that’s not going to be done in five minutes, but I enjoy his company and the responsibility I’ve been given to get this club promoted."

Although Eastleigh, along with the other four remaining non-League sides, have been overlooked for live TV coverage this weekend (so much for the magic of the FA Cup!), there is £67,500 up for grabs from the FA prize fund and the giant carrot of possible Premier League opposition in the next round.

“Money-wise tomorrow’s game is mega, but the long-term vision is to get Eastleigh into the Football League," said Allen.

“A win on Saturday would help that because there’d be lot of money if we were to get a result, but the goal is to see where we are in 18 months’ time.”