Stones make a statement of intent

Maidstone

Maidstone United will continue day time training when they return and chief executive Bill Williams sees that as a statement of intent. The club had been considering whether to switch to evening training, effectively going part-time, as the club’s board looked at many aspects of their operation after the season was halted. Co-owner Oliver Ash said at the end of March that they had some “pretty stark decisions to take and think about how we operate.”

The Stones have announced on Tuesday, however, that they will remain committed to daytime training under manager Hakan Hayrettin.

A club statement said: “The club‘s owners are working up details to fully reopen the Gallagher Stadium and preparing for a second season in National League South. “Oliver Ash and Terry Casey (co-owners) may not know exactly when the new season might start, nor whether restrictions on attendances may be imposed, but after much reflection and debate they have confirmed that next season’s squad will continue to train three mornings a week, under manager Hakan Hayrettin.”

Williams, who has been tasked with reopening the stadium, said: “After an understandable lull, the hospitality, leisure and sporting sectors are starting to emerge from lockdown and we await further details. “That in turn will guide the Football Association and National League as to the next steps in our return. The noises coming from both have been encouraging and we’re on notice for a comeback at relatively short notice. “Firming up the training arrangements will help Hakan with his recruitment plans and I thank Terry and Oliver for making that decision now. “Although it is something of a gamble, sticking with three mornings is a statement of intent and it also makes sense from a business and community perspective as we’re able to continue to host other community teams in our evening schedule.

“The three of us are looking to next season with renewed optimism. We’ve got some work to do with Hak on his return but are confident that with the right recruitment, backed up with a solid under23 squad, we can come back strongly and be ready for the new campaign.”

Maidstone chief executive Bill Williams