Helping hand for away fans

Maidstone players and management are chipping in to help fans reach Rochdale for Tuesday’s FA Cup replay. Captain Lee Worgan came up with the idea in a bid to ensure the supporters’ coach is able to make the 275-mile journey to Lancashire. Stones boss Jay Saunders said: “The players and the management team have had a little whipround to put towards the cost of the coach as it may be struggling to fill. “The support’s been fantastic this season, home and away, and we appreciate it. “They travel all over the country and it’s nice to be able to do a little something for them.” The coach to Rochdale is due to leave James Whatman Way at 1.30pm. Cost is £ 30 per person. To book, call Tim Murrell on 07921 193374. A final decision on whether to run the coach will be made today (Friday).

Callum Davies could make a permanent switch to Folkestone. The defender’s three-month loan is almost up and Maidstone are happy to let him stay at Cheriton Road. Stones boss Jay Saunders said: “The loan’s up in a week or so’s time. I’ve spoken to Neil Cugley (Folkestone manager). He’s keen to keep him and Callum’s keen to stay.”

Callum Driver is back in action after three months out with a broken foot. The Stones full-back played in a behind-closed-doors friendly against Whitstable on Tuesday night. Manager Jay Saunders said: “He came through 90 minutes, which is good. His foot felt fine, which is the main thing.” Driver hadn’t played since going off injured at Aldershot in the second game of the season.

Bookings are being taken for Maidstone United’s Christmas soccer school. It takes place on Friday, December 23 (10am-3pm) and is for boys and girls aged five to 12. Stones boss Jay Saunders and firstteam players will take the session and there’ll be a visit from Santa. Cost is £ 20 per person. Book online at maidstoneunited.co.uk.