As you would expect from a former top flight striker, his timing is impeccable.

Just weeks after being accused of match-fixing on the front page of a national newspaper, John Fashanu is about to become the manager of a Sunday league football team in Hendon, for Fash's Football Challenge — a reality TV programme that will last the entire season.

Fash FC will play all their games at Hendon FC's ground in Claremont Road, Cricklewood, where Fash will attempt to transform a squad made up of members of the public into a team capable of winning the Hendon & District League.

Fash himself strongly denied the match-fixing allegations: "As you know, I have reported this matter to the police and am awaiting their response."

Bravo TV's director of programmes Richard Woolfe said the publicity surrounding the allegations can only raise his show's profile.

"It's certainly raised awareness of our show, which is great. We've had long discussions with Fash. There are lots of things I can't say for legal reasons but, having seen all the evidence on his side, I can say that I am really pleased he is on board," said Mr Woolfe, who lives in Southway, Totteridge.

Viewers will already be familiar with Fash following the second series of I'm a Celebrity, Get Me Out of Here! in May.

Fash's mantra-like use of the word ‘focus’ and incessant martial arts exercises were in a manner worthy of Barnet FC's own manager Martin ‘Mad Dog’ Allen. But Mr Woolfe denied he is deliberately setting up dressing room fireworks by putting Fash in charge.

"What I am setting it up for is some great TV moments. There are times in any team where the manager goes berserk," he said.

Mr Woolfe added that unnamed Premiership stars will be on hand to coach the team, who will be rewarded with free nights out at exclusive West End clubs if they win, and punished on army assault courses if they lose.

And given that defeat is not a word a man such as Fash would contemplate hearing more than once, the resulting viewing promises great drama.

"I would say to anyone, come down to Hendon when the programme is up and running — and if you see any shady characters receiving paper bags full of used fivers, report it immediately," said Mr Woolfe.

"It would make great TV."

To get your name on Fash's teamsheet, visit www.realityfootball.tv, fill in the on-line application form and send it, with a photo and a video, to Bravo TV by the end of August. Successful applicants will be invited for interview and then trials in Hendon.