Footballing Families -
Is talent really in the genes?

It is often heard, someone is born to do something whether it be singing, dancing or playing football, so it will come as no surprise to learn, with todays tecnology that sports scientists are now looking into genetic screening for potential footballers. Believe it or not, there is already a 'sports performance' gene test available over the counter from a paternity testing company in Australia. The company claim it 'allows you to realise your full potential'. The test is based on work by a group of Austrian scientists in 2003, but before you rush down to your local chemist, it should be noted that the Austrians involved don't have much faith in the screening process themselves.

The Allen family tree: Les, Dennis and Ron were brothers, though Ron never played professional football. Their sons Clive, Bradley,Martin and Paul all played football professionally. Clive's son Oliver, continues the family tradition and currently plays for Stevenage Borough.

So will we one day be able to determine that a future England footballer has been born? That remains to be seen, but what we do know is that since football began, there have been many players whos offspring have also gone on to play football at a professional level. In fact there are many brothers and cousins who play professional football and one of the largest footballing families is the Allen family as the family tree above explains: