Martin Allen has been appointed head coach of Skrill Premier club Barnet until the end of next season.
The Bees have been searching for a new boss since Edgar Davids quit in January, and Allen’s arrival marks the beginning of his fourth stint in charge at Barnet, after previous spells in 2003, 2011 and 2012.
Allen – who will oversee Saturday’s home clash against Hereford United - has been out of management since he was dismissed by Gillingham in October, with the League One club hovering precariously above the drop zone.
His new charges sit just a point outside the Skill Premier play-offs and face a competitive run-in.
"I’m really looking forward to the challenge of helping Barnet return to the Football League,” he told Barnet’s website.
"I only got the call this morning (Wednesday). It is nice to have the opportunity. I spoke to the chairman (Tony Kleanthous) earlier today but we have always had a very good relationship and we have always keep in touch.
"When Gillingham were promoted he was one of the first people to call and congratulate me and likewise when Barnet were relegated I was the first on the phone to him. It will be great to work with him again."
