It is rather ironic that a feeling of positivity reigns at Barnet due to the events of recent months. Our departure from Underhill and relegation should have left us devastated and broken for a long time but the exact opposite has occurred.

For the first time in ages Barnet fans are looking forward to a season where we may actually win a trophy and compete near the top of the table – and almost certainly avoid a relegation battle.

While only two teams – Shrewsbury Town and Carlisle United – have ever secured promotion at the first attempt after relegation from League Two, I feel Barnet may become the third team to achieve this.

The omens for this are looking good so far.

Unlike other clubs who have gone down before us, we are financially secure. This means we do not have a necessity to sell our star players nor have to drastically cut back on costs.

Part of this is due to Tony Kleanthous’ strong backing of the club as well as his dream venture coming to fruition.

Although not originally intended as a stadium The Hive has become the fulcrum of Barnet FC.

The Hive has many commercial avenues that can be exploited, thus raising money for the club, such as: unique medical services, a top-class gym and a banqueting suite.

It ranks as one of the best training grounds in the country with it being the envy of many clubs across the country.

And this extraordinary facility played a big role in persuading Edgar Davids to stay at Barnet.

Despite our demotion he has already etched himself into Barnet folklore with him being loved by the Barnet faithful.

He has brought a continental brand of football to the club helping us to create an identity introduced by Paul Fairclough last summer.

Expectations have also been raised by the mercurial Dutchman with him demanding the best for the club and of his players.

His stature not only helps to attract players to the club but to help existing ones stay.

The majority of last season’s squad have remained at the club with Ricky Holmes and Barry Fuller being the only regular starters to have departed.

This signals the club’s intent to return at the first attempt as we have a strong nucleus of the squad.

Graham Stack, David Stephens, Elliott Johnson, Luke Gambin, Mark Byrne et al should all excel in the Conference having proven their abilities at a higher level.

There are also many players who have the chance to prove themselves at a lower level such as Harry Crawford and Mauro Vilhete.

While the squad looks impressive so far, there are a few improvements that need to be made.

Paul Fairclough said earlier on in the week that “we need to add three core players and then three or four squad players.”

This is something I agree with and these additions could make the difference in our bid for promotion.

Strength in depth in defence is needed, especially in right-back where we do not have a player whose natural role in this.

The centre of midfield also needs working on, due to Curtis Weston having a reputation for injuries while Davids cannot play week-in, week-out.

Pre-season is shaping up nicely so far. The Hive is coming along extremely well; Davids has prolonged his stay at the club and we are building a squad capable for promotion.

So far so good. But maintaining this buzz will be crucial for The Bees.

This time next year it is a real possibility that we may be approaching the season as a League Two outlet again.