Allen hopes it’s fifth-time lucky

MARTIN ALLEN has become manager of Barnet for a fifth time.

The Bees sacked Graham Westley after a 2-0 home defeat to Wycombe left them bottom of League Two, seven points from safety.

Barnet have turned to a familiar figure in the shape of Allen, who has had four spells in charge of the club, leaving the last time for non-League Eastleigh in December 2016.

The switch was Barnet’s 20th change in manager since 2010 and chairman Anthony Kleanthous revealed he appointed Allen after concluding he was wrong to overlook him in January. “Doing nothing was not an option so here we are again, another Monday another manager,” said Kleanthous. “Martin’s remit is simple: clear the decks, get everyone focused and win matches.

“I should have given him the job in January but I was thinking we could make the play-offs and he was trying to convince me we would be fighting relegation.

“He was right and I was in cuckoo land, but when it comes to Barnet, I struggle to accept anything negative and my enthusiasm gets the better of me. I should have listened to him.”

ALLEN: High five

MANCHESTER UNITED have triggered Ashley Young’s one-year contract extension to retain his services for another term.

Young’s current deal is due to expire this summer but United have confirmed they have taken up the option of an extra 12 months.

The 32-year-old has been in fine form at full-back this season and is back in the England picture.