Dutch legend Edgar Davids arrived at Barnet in 2012 as player-head coach, a move that seemed improbable for one of football's most iconic midfielders. The team was bottom of the Football League, winless, and already managed. Davids' arrival, driven by his desire to complete his Uefa coaching badges, was seen as an opportunity to help both him and the club.

He joined as joint manager with Mark Robson, who was struggling with a winless start. Davids brought his childhood friend Ulrich Landvreugd as assistant. Barnet's survival became the immediate focus; Kleanthous set the target of 50 points, a feat no team had achieved while getting relegated. Davids' intense training methods and strict rule demanding players address him as 'Mister' or 'Sir' created a challenging environment, though it fostered unity among many players.

His tactical acumen shone in a 4-1 win over Northampton, a performance Hyde likened to Davids' Champions League highlights. The season culminated in a 51-point tally, a record for a relegated team in League Two, securing survival but leading to his departure after a controversial incident during an away trip. Davids remains fondly remembered by Barnet fans over a decade later for his impact and intensity.