Barnet top scorer John Akinde has penned a new three-year deal at the club, keeping him at The Hive until 2019.

The Bees have awarded the 23-goal striker his second new contract inside six months, after he signed a one-year extension to his old deal in January.

Akinde became a fans’ favourite soon after moving from Alfreton in 2014, scoring 31 goals as Martin Allen’s side romped to the Conference National title a year later.

He scored his 50th league goal for the club earlier this season and ended the season as League 2’s third-highest scorer, months after he was linked with a move to Wolves to replace departed forward Benik Afobe.

Head coach Allen told the club website: “It’s a massive scoop for us to keep him, and it shows how far this club has come. I’m very pleased.

“He’s got better as a player as time’s gone on, he’s till got a vast amount in my opinion where he can improve his game.

“The chairman has to take a lot of credit – he’s pushed two boats out to get him signed.”