Fan Attraction! Jai Reveals Stones Appeal

The experienced midfielder has joined the Stones after being released by Boreham Wood at the end of last season, having signed from Eastleigh in February.

A two-time National League South winner, the 27-year-old made over 250 appearances during five years at the Spitfires but left club following a difficult start to the season.

Over the past two months Reason has been keeping himself fit by training in his local park, and now his hard work has paid off.

He became Maidstone's tenth signing of the summer before number eleven also arrived today - former Southampton midfielder Harley Willard.

The 19-year-old had been on trial with the club appearing in all of the Stones' pre-season friendlies so far.

Willard began his playing career with Arsenal between the ages of nine and 15, before moving to the south coast where he was with The Saints for four years.

On his new signings, manager Jay Saunders said: "I met Jai at the end of the season once he'd left Boreham Wood. For one reason or another the move hadn't happened but we've got there and I'm pleased to get him on board.

"We've been saying we needed to bolster the squad and I wanted to bring in some experienced lads, and Jai is certainly that.

"The first time I really saw him play was about four or five years ago against us. We've monitored him since then and he's one I've always been impressed with."

He continued: "I am delighted to get Harley on board for next season. He spent the early part of pre-season with the Gills and was recommended to us by Peter Taylor.

“He’s come in and done really well and his addition gives me options across the midfield. Despite his young age, he’s had an excellent grounding at Arsenal and Southampton and you can see that in his style of play.”

Reason added: "I've been training on my own for three weeks, it's been tough but I can't wait to get going and meet the lads.

“The one thing that sold it for me was the fans. When we came here with Boreham Wood, I think there was 3000 fans and they made a lot of noise.”