Alan joined the Kenilworth Road coaching staff in the summer of 2008 as youth team coach but was appointed first team coach alongside Kevin Watson in January 2009.

Neilson was once a player with the Hatters when his experience and versatility made him a valuable member of the Hatters' squad between 2002 and 2005, filling any role asked of him with dependable consistency - anywhere in the back four or in midfield.

The former Welsh international was signed from Grimsby in 2002 as part of a cost-cutting exercise.

His international career began with appearances for Wales at youth and Under-21 level, followed by five full caps, and he enjoyed a good career in the Premiership, with his first club Newcastle and then with Southampton and Fulham.

Following the departure of Mick Harford on 1st October 2009, Neilson was appointed as caretaker manager and won four of his six games in charge until the arrival of Richard Money.

Originally appointed as Money's assistant, Neilson was given his new title of First Team Development Manager in the summer of 2010.

Neilson was appointed assistant manager in the summer of 2011 when Gary Brabin was named as manager.