Midfielder Ryan Watson acknowledged that he has had to adapt to Barnet’s direct style of play since joining the club in the summer.

Watson, came back into the Bees starting line-up for their recent games against Norwich City and Doncaster Rovers.

Sam Muggleton’s long throw is becoming an increasingly significant feature of the team’s play and Martin Allen admitted after the Rovers game that his side were ‘never going to try and outplay’ the hosts.

The 23 year-old, who learnt his trade at Wigan Athletic and spent three years at Leicester City, recognised the need to sacrifice his natural game.

“Of course, I want to get the ball down and play, that’s my type of game,” he said. “We adapt to the different ways we’re told to play and you can’t always play pretty football.

Martin Allen

“Against Doncaster we played the game well and the long throws were a massive bonus for us. It’s a great tool for us to have and they couldn’t really handle it.”

Watson has started six League Two games since arriving at the Hive and Sam Togwell’s impending hernia surgery- that will keep him out for six weeks- leaves a vacancy in the centre of midfield.

The Crewe-born youngster, who can also operate at right back, underlined his desire to stay in the team.

“I was quite pleased with how I went against Doncaster,” he commented.

“All of us made a slow start but we got better as the game went on. I’m obviously happy to be back in the team and want to keep hold of my shirt now. I’m here to play games so hopefully I can do that.”