Ahead of the start of the Enterprise National League South season on Saturday 9 August, the Stones have seven pre-season friendlies lined up — four at home and three away.

The first of those away fixtures takes place at familiar surroundings, as George Elokobi’s side heads to Homelands to face Ashford United.

It’s a ground the club called home between 2009 and 2011, before the move to the Gallagher Stadium.

Ashford also features some familiar faces. Co-owner and first-team manager Lloyd Hume managed the Stones from 2004 to 2010 — four of those years alongside Alan Walker, who now serves as Ashford’s Director of Football.

Hume’s backroom staff includes former Maidstone players Craig Stone (assistant manager) and Matt Bodkin (fitness coach), while the squad features Joe Ellul and Harley Earle.

Ashford United vs. Maidstone United
Pre-season Friendly
Saturday, 5 July
Kick-off: 15:00
The Green Box Stadium, Ashford Road, Kingsnorth, TN26 1NJ

• Tickets available on the turnstiles
• Adults £6, Concessions £3, Under-18s £1, Under-12s Free