Martin Allen has confirmed he would like to sign defender Michael Nelson but has admitted there is interest from other clubs in the veteran centre-half.

Nelson, 35, has been training with Barnet during the first two weeks of pre-season and played the first hour of Saturday’s 5-3 defeat by Crystal Palace at The Hive.

The former Cambridge United skipper looked good alongside Bondz N’Gala before being replaced by Joe Gater.

Speaking afterwards, head coach Allen confirmed he would like to bring the Gateshead-born defender to The Hive on a permanent basis.

“I would like to [sign him] but there are other players out there and it is coming to the time now where players are desperate for clubs if they have not got one,” said Allen.

“He has trained with us every day and paid his own expenses and for his own hotel, so I think that tells you something about him. I think you would have to say today he put a in a really good performance for us.”

He continued: “Forget his age, he is a good player. He is a leader, a captain and a good player. So hopefully the chairman can get something sorted out with his agent.

“I know there are other clubs interested in him but I have known Michael for a long time and it would be nice to work with him but I do not do the contracts here.”

Nelson made 33 League Two starts for the U's last season after joining from Scottish Premier League outfit Hibernian in August.

The 6ft 2in defender has previously turned out for Norwich City, Scunthorpe United, Bradford City and Hartlepool United in the Football League. He has also played north of the border for Kilmarnock.