Strevens turns down Kinnear for Barnet

Ben Strevens, Wingate and Finchley's 18-year-old top scorer, has turned pro with Barnet.

Strevens, whose goal-grabbing habit brought him 18 goals in 13 matches in the Ryman League Division Three this season and attracted the attention of Chelsea, Charlton, Wimbledon and Millwall, signed a two-year contract with the Bees on Monday.

He'd turned down Charlton's offer of an U19 contract, and after Wimbledon, managed by Joe Kinnear, watched him again in Wingate's 4-0 home win over Kingsbury they asked him to delay his move to Barnet. But his mind was made up, and he's due to was due to make his debut for the reserves in their home clash with Fulham yesterday (Wednesday).

Strevens, who lives at Bushfield Close, Edgware, and was a pupil at Mill Hill County High School, spent ten years with local youth side Princes Park, who play in the Harrow League, and was with Watford for four years.

He switched to Wingate and Finchley last year, and this is his first season of senior football.

"I plumped for Barnet because it's my local club and has a good set-up," said Ben. "I want to make it to the first team and am looking forward to playing league football."

Said Barnet boss John Still: "Alan Dafforn watched Ben in action for me recently and was impressed. He told me he's quick, has a good first touch and is a good finisher. He is definitely one for the future for us."

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