Norwich City: Allan Russell lifted Christina Aguilera at MTV

But in his younger days new interim Norwich City coach Allan Russell was more likely to be seen strutting his stuff on stage with megastars than dreaming up tactics on the training pitch. 

The former striker, along with Steve Weaver, has been put in charge of the Canaries following the departure of Dean Smith at the weekend. And on Thursday he received a wave of good wishes from fans after an impressive opening press conference. 

Allan Russell speaking at a press conference following his appointment as joint interim coach of Norwich City (Image: Newsquest)

But he failed to mention an earlier experience of being in the media glare back in the early 2000s.  

In 2003, he was part of a group of topless studs who carried Christina Aguilera on to the stage at the MTV Awards in Edinburgh.

Allan Russell was part of a group of topless hunks who carried Christina Aguilera onto the stage at the MTV Awards in Edinburgh, 2003 (Image: PA)

The pop songstress was held aloft on a golden throne by the kilted men and carried on to the stage to host the ceremony.

Allan Russell carried out Christina Aguilera at the 2003 MTV Awards in Edinburgh (Image: PA)

But it doesn't end there - he was also a regular feature in glossy magazines while working as a model and at one time landed a cameo role in Scottish soap River City.

Hopefully his talents as an attacking specialist will help turn around the Canaries' fortunes this season and tomorrow night Carrow Road will be rocking with the sound of On The Ball, City rather than Genie in a Bottle.   

Allan Russell speaking during a press conference following his appointment as joint interim coach of Norwich City (Image: Denise Bradley/Newsquest)