Martin Allen was pleased with Nicky Bailey's second Barnet debut and hopes he can pull the rest of the squad into shape.

The 31-year-old midfielder has been restricted to just two substitute appearances after rejoining on a short-term contact at the end of october.

However, the former Middlesbrough and Millwall player was handed his first start for Saturday's home defeat by Mansfield Town and completed 62 minutes before being substituted.

Speaking afterwards, head coach Allen said: "I thought he did really well and it’s good to have him back in.

"It’s difficult for him at the moment because he hasn’t had enough games but he’s been training really hard.

"He brings experience, knowledge and know-how. I was really pleased with his performance in terms of where he is fitness wise.

"He’s a good player to have in the group because he’s got self-belief, confidence and he’s got a huge will and desire to win. He will help me pull the others round and get the others into shape."