Margate manager Nikki Bull admits he considered making an audacious bid for Aaron McLean when he heard the striker might be looking for a new club.

The pair spent part of their careers together at Aldershot and Bull thought he'd chance his arm when he received a tip-off that the former Hull City and Peterborough man might be leaving League 2 Barnet.

McLean, 32, signed for Gate's Vanarama National League South rivals Ebbsfleet United on Thursday and Bull revealed: "We thought about trying to nick him but as soon as I knew Ebbsfleet were in for him that fire was put out.

"We (he and McLean) were together a few years at Aldershot. I kind of took him under my wing (because) as a youngster he was a bit wayward and we've always remained on friendly terms.

"Gary Waddock (formerly of Aldershot) is assistant manager at Barnet and he spoke to me last week and said 'I think Aaron's leaving' but as soon as I knew Ebbsfleet were interested it was dead in the water.

"Hopefully he won't return to haunt me on Saturday (when the Blues travel to Stonebridge Road to face the leaders)."

Asked if he would be in touch with McLean before the game Bull said: "I'm sure I will. If I'm not and he scores he definitely will be in touch with me the week after but he's a great lad, and he's had a good career.

"It will be nice to see him next week but first and foremost we're going there to get three points for Margate."

Meanwhile Bull said Saturday's 4-1 home win over Chelmsford - their fourth in a row at Hartsdown Park - was further evidence of his side's growing maturity.

He added: "I think it hurt them last week, the second half performance against Maidenhead (when they let slip a 2-0 lead before winning 3-2) but I think they learned from it.

"When we did concede that first goal (against Chelmsford) there was a definite sense from the players of shoulders back, let's roll our sleeves up and let's just deal with it.

"They've learned from it and that's another tick in the box. I keep asking the team questions and they keep giving me answers. It was a good professional performance."