Martin Allen gave Barnet supporters a brief update on the condition of his squad ahead of the visit of Lincoln City to The Hive on Saturday, as the Bees look to maintain their perfect start to the season and make it three wins from three.

Speaking to the club’s official website on his birthday, Martin revealed that his two player-coaches had marked the occasion by letting him put his feet up:

“Today is a very special day as it is my birthday, so Graham Stack and Jon Nurse have taken training for us this morning.”

He also announced that the squad had a fresh bill of health as they prepare for Saturday game, and that they had even been able to welcome back long-term absentee Iffy Allen, who has been recovering from a leg fracture suffered during the first week of pre-season:

“All of the players are fit and well. Young Iffy Allen has also now started running which has been a big boost, not only for him but also for all of our first team squad being able to see Iffy back out with us in the fresh air on the training pitch.”

Finally, the manager reiterated the faith that he has in all of the members of the squad, some of whom are yet to feature for the Bees this season, ahead of choosing his side to face the Imps on Saturday:

“We have now got a very good squad of players, several of whom have been doing very well in training but have not been playing.

“I am really looking forward to Saturday’s game. All of the players in the squad are ready to go in and play in a successful team. I am convinced that all of the squad are ready.”