Barnet Football Club can confirm first-team head coach Martin Allen has been released from his contract to enable him to join Vanarama National League side Eastleigh.

Martin leaves Barnet having helped guide the Bees back into the Football League in 2015 – a record-breaking third Conference title for the club.

Barnet Chairman Tony Kleanthous said: “Martin has asked to be released from his contract so he can join Eastleigh.

“The approach came out of the blue yesterday but it was quite clear that Martin had decided that he wanted to take the opportunity they were offering to him.

“He leaves with our best wishes having done a great job helping to rebuild the football club after our relegation into the National League.

“Our promotion two years ago was one of my highlights as Chairman and I was always aware Martin would be in demand as a result.

“The club is undergoing many changes. We have made the transition off the field needed for us to progress through the Football League and we must ensure our on-field development matches the facilities we have created.

“Martin’s departure presents us with an opportunity and we intend to appoint somebody who will help develop our younger players and integrate them into our first-team, as well as bringing in players who can play at a higher standard.”

In the interim Development Team coach Rossi Eames will take charge of the first-team affairs, assisted by Academy manager Henry Newman.

Barnet Football Club would like to place on record their thanks to Martin for his efforts over the last two-and-a-half years.