Barnet will be playing league football again next season, after a four-year absence, having already clinched promotion from the Conference with games to spare. Mind you, Barnet's success this season has come as no surprise to captain Ian Hendon, the former Spurs and Sheffield Wednesday player, who believed all along that they were the best team in the league. Hendon also believes that with such a young side, Barnet will not be playing to make up the numbers next season. Manager Paul Fairclough paid tribute to his players by saying 'they have created a little bit of history and no-one can take that away from them - winning the championship makes them immortal'. Hendon's not inclined to disagree - as he told givemefootball's Lawrie Madden.
Q:WHAT WAS THE FEELING LIKE WHEN PROMOTION WAS CLINCHED LAST WEEK?
A:We went away to Northwich and knew if we had won we would have been promoted, but it was a lot better to win at home in front of our fans. I know you can’t be choosy where and when you go up but it is better at home.
Q:IT'S BEEN A STEADY RISE, DID YOU EVER HAVE ANY DOUBTS?
A:Last year we got to the play-offs but never really looked like going up. This year we went top of the table in September and set the pace, and stayed there. It is a hell of an achievement.
Q:WHAT DO YOU PUT THE SUCCESS DOWN TO?
A:We had the nucleus of a decent side last year but the manager used his contacts from all over to bring in new players. We had players coming from Norwich, QPR, Sutton and Exeter so the manager used all his knowledge of the game and, being the England non-league manager, he knew this division inside out. We also had a striker who has scored 28 goals so far so that helps.
Q:AND YOU'VE GONE UP IN STYLE?
A:Last year we won a lot of games under Martin Allen 1-0, but this year we have scored over 90 goals. Some of the football at times has been outstanding and we have so much pace in the side. The pitch at home has been fantastic and that has helped us.
Q:ARE YOU ALREADY THINKING ABOUT NEXT SEASON?
A:Well, we are already looking at Yeovil as our role model. They have done very well and they play good football, and have shown what can be achieved when you move up. We are looking to do well next season.
Q:WILL YOU NEED TO STRENGTHEN IN THE SUMMER?
A:I am sure the manager will add to the squad and probably bring in a few experienced league players because we are a very young team. Apart from the manager, I am the only one who has been in a promoted team. I am 33 and our striker is 30 but the rest are under 24 so we are a young team.
Q:WHAT'S THE LAST YEAR BEEN LIKE FOR YOU?
A:From a personal point of view, I am really enjoying it. I am enjoying my football more now. I don't know if it is because I am finding it easier but I have had no injuries for two years whereas before, when I was at Sheffield Wednesday, I had lots of injuries. Having an injury-free run helps.
Q:HOW DOES THIS COMPARE WITH YOUR PREVIOUS PROMOTIONS?
A:I have been promoted with Northampton, Notts County and at Birmingham when I was on loan there. They are all similar but I have been captain here and the older player who has helped out with the coaching, so I have had more to do. I think in a small way I have perhaps guided one or two players so there is much more of a sense of achievement.
