Barnet skipper Lee Howarth spoke this week about his frustration in his dispute with the club over terms for a new two-year contract.

Under the Bosman ruling, Howarth became a free agent when his contract expired on Wednesday, but he is a long way from reaching agreement over a new offer.

"It's frustrating that it has not been sorted out," said Howarth. " It's a big decision that affects the next two years of my life, and I am still considering my options.

"I am still speaking to John Still and the door has not been shut. We are trying to sort things out, but I expected to be offered more. I've spoken to other clubs but there is nothing available that I can walk straight into.

"I may not find it right away. I am a Third Division footballer, and the Bosman ruling has left many players available.

"Barnet have not budged on their position all summer. If I can get a better deal elsewhere I will go, if not, I will sign for Barnet.

"I've been happy at the club and get on well with everybody. But this is the first time that a player like myself can maximise their earnings.

"Instead of facing the prospect of signing a long contract and languishing in the reserves, If I turn down the offer I leave the club.

"Pre-season training starts in earnest next week, and the first friendlies are a fortnight ahead, so I need to finalise things before then."

Manager John Still said: " Lee has phoned me, but the situation is still stalemate. We are getting to a stage where I am almost saying - make your mind up.

"If Lee goes elsewhere, I have Warren Goodhind who is more than capable of doing a job, and I would be able to bring in somebody else to fill another position. The ball is still in his court."

Barnet's players reported back on Wednesday and full training starts in earnest on Monday

Still is busy trying to bring in a couple of new faces to bolster his squad. He's been having preliminary talks with Paul Mahorn, a 24-year-old-striker who began his pro career with Spurs and has been on loan to Fulham, Burnley and Brentford.

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