Dele Alli is training at Barnet's Hive training ground as he works towards a return to professional football. The 30-year-old former England midfielder, a free agent since his release from Italian club Como last September, has hired the facility privately to maintain his fitness.

Alli is not involved with the Barnet first-team squad or coaching staff. He has been conducting solo sessions, with footage posted on his TikTok account showing him scoring in shooting drills. This follows a similar period earlier this year when he trained at Tottenham Hotspur's base with their permission.

The high-profile use of Barnet's facilities comes as the club enjoys a strong start to the season. Dean Brennan's side sit top of League Two, two points clear with 15 points from seven unbeaten games. Their recent form includes a 3-1 home win over Fleetwood Town last Saturday, with goals from Kabongo Tshimanga, Charlie Lakin and Idris Kanu.

Speaking about his situation, Alli said: "I can't wait to get back on the pitch playing. Hopefully it won't be too long now." In a separate message to supporters, he added, "I hope you've missed me as much as I've missed you."

Alli's career has been marked by significant highs and recent challenges. He rose to prominence at Tottenham Hotspur, where he made 269 appearances between 2015 and 2022, scoring 67 goals and providing 59 assists. However, his career has been disrupted by injuries and a loan spell at Besiktas before his move to Como. His presence at The Hive, while purely for personal training, shows the growing stature of a club currently leading the fourth tier. Barnet's solid standings position is built on a potent attack that has scored 17 league goals so far.

Barnet manager Dean Brennan commented on the arrangement, stating that Alli's use of the facilities is a private matter and that the player is not training with the squad. The club is focused on its own campaign to secure promotion from League Two. Alli's next move remains unclear, but his work at Barnet's base is a concrete step in his rehabilitation. The Bees, meanwhile, focus on maintaining their league leadership at Broadfield Stadium this weekend.

First reported at thesun.co.uk