Maidstone United begin search for players' and management for Suburban League development side

MAIDSTONE UNITED are launching a side in the Suburban League next season.

The Suburban League, which has no player age restriction, appealed for more Kent club’s towards the end of next season and the clubs application to join was accepted last night, paving the way for the introduction of a development squad at the club.

Maidstone United will have a squad made up predominately of players aged under 23 and it will give first team bosses John Still and Hakan Hayrettin the chance to trial new recruits and keep first team fringe players match fit.

Home games will be played at the clubs stadium at James Whatman Way on alternate Saturday’s to the first team and opponents will include Aldershot Town, Bromley, Oxford City, Sutton United and Woking.

Chief executive Bill Williams told www.maidstoneunited.co.uk: “This is an exciting and much-needed addition. Since our promotion from the Isthmian League, we’ve missed out by not having an under 23 league to offer to our Academy and under 18 players.

“We want to bring current and former Academy and youth players into the set-up and invite talented local players to apply.

“Alongside all the player development benefits, I think these matches will be attractive to some supporters who, for one reason or another, do not travel to away games. It’ll give them a quality game of football, closer to home.”

First team boss Still added: “I think the development squad will be another way of us finding players, I really do. 

“You haven’t got to find loads but if you can get one or two into the first team squad, it serves its purpose.

“It’s a win-win because it will give people who want to play at a good level of football, who might not get the opportunity at a young age, a chance to do so.  Community wise it’s a fantastic thing for us to do too.”

The National League South club begin the search for a manager for the side, who is qualified to FA Level Two or higher.  Applications for this voluntary role can be made by emailing info@maidstoneunited.co.uk.

The club are also keen to hear from players aged between 18 and 23 who would like to trial for this side.

Visit Maidstone United’s website: www.maidstoneunited.co.uk