It is still not clear whether Kevin Lisbie will require surgery on a hamstring injury but the Barnet striker could be out for up to five months should he go under the knife.

The 36-year-old striker is yet to make his debut for the Bees after being withdrawn during the 2-0 win at Eastleigh in the final week of pre-season.

Lisbie, who joined Barnet from Leyton Orient following his release by the O’s this summer, is still a couple of weeks away from a prognosis.

Head coach Martin Allen said: “Kevin is working very hard at the moment and it is 50:50 as to whether he needs an operation or not.

“If he needs an operation then it is three to five months.

“We are hoping after further testing in two weeks’ time that it won’t need an operation and the work he has done has strengthened it accordingly.”

Goalkeeper Graham Stack is another who is currently sidelined, the 33-year-old missing the League Cup defeat at Wolverhampton Wanderers and Saturday’s goalless draw at home to Cambridge United.

Summer signing Jamie Stephens deputised in the former Arsenal man’s absence and will continue to do so for Tuesday’s Football League Trophy trip to Yeovil Town and the trek to Carlisle United on Saturday.

“Graham Stack has got a calf problem and a hip flexor,” explained Allen. “The calf is much improved and the hip flexor you have to take your time with.

“He won’t be fit for Carlisle and he will be 50:50, if not less, for the week after at Portsmouth.”