2 weeks Ago By [email protected] (Craig Tucker)
Long-serving Maidstone defender George Fowler has signed a new deal at the Gallagher Stadium. It’s the perfect boost for the Stones heading into the National League South play-offs. A top-seven place is effectively guaranteed before the final-day game at Farnborough this Saturday (3pm).
Maidstone are three points clear of nearest rivals Weston but have a vastly superior goal difference - +32 compared to +16. Fowler announced the deal on the pitch after being named manager’s player and supporters’ player-of-the-year following the 1-1 draw with Tonbridge on Easter Monday. “I’m delighted to have George Fowler here for another season,” said Stones boss George Elokobi.
“He’s been exceptional in terms of his approach and his consistency levels. “Since I became manager he’s not put a foot wrong. “He’s a leader of men, he’s been available throughout the season and he just keeps getting better.
“He’s been there for us when we’ve needed a goal, too, him and Temi Eweka, and credit to him. “I’m delighted for him having accepted our offer and hopefully he can carry on enjoying himself at Maidstone United.” Fowler joined the Stones initially on loan from Aldershot early in the 2021/22 title-winning season.
It soon became a permanent deal and the former Ipswich man has gone from strength to strength. He’s a big crowd favourite, winning the supporters’ player-of-the-year vote for the second time. “He’s improved in all areas of his game,” said Elokobi.
“His game understanding, his game management, and he’s added goals to his game. “I know he can play in several key positions for us as well and it’s about understanding the tactics and what’s needed, in and out of possession, and on the transition. “He always plays with a smile on his face so he’s a good signing to have for Maidstone United.
” Fowler is the first name announced for next season and Elokobi hopes more will follow soon. Keeping a player of his calibre may also help attract new signings to the Gallagher Stadium, regardless of what division Maidstone are in next season. “We’ve spoken to several players in our squad,” said Elokobi.
“We have to wait for them to get back to us. “At this stage of the season we’ve still got one league game to go and we’ll concentrate on that and see where it takes us. “There are players that want to be at Maidstone United and you always look at the squad that’s been there, and they would have come up against George Fowler.
“He’s a Steady Eddie in terms of his approach in games but also he’s a good person and an honest person. “I’m sure to have a player like him is only going to help attract other players to come to us, but also to encourage the players we’ve made offers to commit their futures to us.” Maidstone can finish no higher than seventh, meaning they’ll visit whoever finishes fourth in a play-off eliminator on Wednesday night (7.
45pm). Possible opponents are Truro, Torquay, Eastbourne, Worthing, Boreham Wood and Dorking, who are all fighting for the title on the final day. If United progress, an away semi-final awaits on Sunday, May 4, with the final to be played on Saturday, May 17 (both 3pm).
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