STONES HAPPY BESIDE THE SEA

HAKAN HAYRETTIN says Maidstone United would love to give something back to their fans when they take on League One Blackpool this afternoon.

It’s a long trip to the seaside town but supporters of the National League South Stones will be dreaming of an upset and a date in the third round.

Head coach Hayrettin, who works alongside legendary gaffer John Still, expects a tough encounter and has urged his side to give their all.

“We’ve got to enjoy the day,” Hayrettin, whose side beat Torquay United in the first round, told The NLP. “We know Blackpool are doing well in their league. They have new owners, an experienced manager with great pedigree.

“We’ve got to go there and put a good account ourselves and for the supporters, the club in general and the players to enjoy the day.

“We needed players that are going to give their maximum to the club and I think we’re getting that in most occasions.”

The Stones travelled up yesterday and Hayrettin – who along with Still has overseen a squad rebuild in the summer following relegation – says it will be a big day for a lot of the squad.

“Some of them haven’t experienced anything like this,” Hayrettin said. “It will be an important of their learning and development. Others like George Elokobi will be able to utilise their experience. We’ve got a young squad, a good squad, they’re learning and trying.

“It takes a big ask of any club to bring in 18 or 19 players in one season. We felt that was the right thing to do. We need to get the buzz back about the place – which I think we’re doing.”