Martin Allen signed goalkeeper Ravan Constable to allow Kai McKenzie-Lyle to continue to play for the Under-18s and Development Team, the Barnet head coach has confirmed.

The 21-year-old Jamaican was a shock acquisition last Thursday after Allen had initially stated he would not add to the goalkeeping department despite Graham Stack’s lengthy lay-off.

Stack is sidelined until the new year after undergoing surgery on his groin last Monday but Allen had originally planned to use backup keeper Jamie Stephens as his number one with McKenzie-Lyle, 17, deputising.

The Under-18s tend to play their fixtures on Saturday mornings meaning McKenzie-Lyle cannot play if involved with the first team.

The Haringey-born stopper had been on the bench for Barnet's last five matches before Constable stepped in at Luton Town on Saturday.

Asked after Saturday's loss against the Hatters if Constable had been signed to allow McKenzie-Lyle to feature for the Under-18s and Development side, Allen said: "Yes. Kai needs more games.

“Raven has been training with us for a couple of months. He’s an exceptional shot stopper, he’s a character for sure.

“He’s another body to help us at the moment and help Kai’s development. It’s a non-contract and we’ve got him until the end of the season. He’s just a good local lad.”

Asked about the young stopper, Bees number one Stephens added: "He’s been in for a couple of months but it’s been a case of getting international clearance for him.

"He’s really enthusiastic, a good lad, and if he keeps his head down and works hard he’ll do well.

"Yes he is eccentric. I think that’s the best word to describe him. He’s a nice lad and he wants to learn, which is good, but he’s a bit of fun.

"He’s a bit unorthodox in certain things around the changing room and the way he goes about his business. But if he keeps working hard he’ll have a good chance in the game."