Conor Clifford has hinted at a potential return to Barnet after admitting he expected to sign for the Bees on a permanent basis this summer.

The 24-year-old midfielder established himself as a fans’ favourite during his 13-game loan spell last season as the Bees clinched a record breaking third Conference title.

But despite telling the Times Series he would love to sign for Martin Allen’s men on a full-time basis after his contract with Southend United ended, as well as playing in a match at St Albans City during pre-season, a move never materialised.

Instead Clifford pitched up at ambitious National League new-boys Boreham Wood along with former captain Charlie MacDonald. He has since been joined by two other members of last season’s squad – Mauro Vilhete and David Stephens.

But, speaking after defeat at home to Aldershot, Clifford suggested a return to Barnet could happen.

He said: “I don’t really know [what happened over the summer]. It was a bit of a crazy summer.

“I thought I was going to end up at Barnet. I loved my time there. I spoke to Martin Allen in the summer and I thought there was a good chance of me going there.

“[But] for one reason or another it didn’t work out. That’s football. You never know. Hopefully, maybe in the future…you never know…I could go back there some time. You never know. Football is strange.

“I just have to concentrate on doing well for Boreham Wood here and keep these in the league and hopefully, you never know what will happen.”

Clifford has scored once in 21 appearances for Wood this season.