Vanarama's National League South Fan Preview: Maidstone United

League sponsors Vanarama have been getting the fans’ perspective ahead of the new season - which kicks off this Saturday

The new season is nearly upon us - what have Maidstone fans got to look forward to?
It's a completely new team for Maidstone, with only a few players from last season still with us. Us fans have got to look forward to watching our side in a new form for a new season.

Is it a case of trying to turn a relegation negative into a positive?
Yes of course it is about trying to turn what happened last season around but it isn't necessarily about promotion. There is no big hurry.

There have been wholesale changes this summer. Was that what the fans expected?
Absolutely. We didn't have a team last season, they were just players - we expected lots of changes and that's what has been delivered.

What’s been the best bit of business done over the past few months?
All of the signings look good - tough to pick one out because we haven't really watched any of them play properly yet. Ask in August!

Who are the other sides to watch out for and could be in the promotion mix?
Billericay, Havant and Weymouth. But they all could be because Maidstone found the so-called weaker sides a challenge last season! We don't really know what to expect from any side - including us.

And who is going to be the surprise package?
We don't know the league that well, so unsure at the moment who will cause a surprise.

What ground are you most looking forward to visiting?
Billericay. Harry Wheeler was our manager for a short period of time so it will be an interesting game!

And what game would you like to win more than any other and why?
Billericay and Tonbridge because it’s always nice to put one over one of your old managers. The Tonbridge games will be local derbies and they’re always good games to win.

You can borrow one opposition player - who is it?
Jack Paxman. He is now at Billericay too. He was my favourite player when he was at the Stones and would love to see him back one day.

Finally, the key question - where do you predict your team will finish next season?
I actually don’t think promotion would automatically be best for us just yet because the league above was clearly too difficult. I think mid-table could be good position to be next season.

Vanarama have recently launched the National League Club Reward scheme to help fans back their club’s budget. Every time a fan takes out a brand new van lease with Vanarama or a brand new car lease with Motorama their club will earn £100 and you will receive £30 cashback.

For the latest van leasing deals head to Vanarama.
For the latest car leasing deals head to Motorama.