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Maidstone United manager Jay Saunders completes his summer transfer activity with two more signings

Jay Saunders
Jay Saunders

Maidstone boss Jay Saunders believes his summer’s work in the transfer market is over and says he can’t wait to see his new arrivals in action.

Centre-back Nicky Humphrey and keeper Deren Ibrahim are the latest players to join the Stones revolution, signing this week from Faversham and Dartford respectively as Saunders bids to build a side to gain promotion from Ryman League, Division 1 South.

The Stones boss has already signed Tim and Ade Olorunda, Paul Booth and Ian Draycott this summer, as well as appointing veteran defender Steve Ward as his assistant.

Saunders (pictured), who is resting a back injury sustained on holiday ahead of pre-season training on June 30, said: "I think we are pretty much there in terms of signings. We’ve invited a few trialists to join us for pre-season so we can have a look at them but other than that, I think we are probably done.

"Deren will be my No.1 and I’m hoping that Charlie Mitten will be No.2. We need two good keepers and I’m sure Charlie’s experience would be great for Deren, who is only 21.

"With Nicky signing, it gives us even more competition at the back."

It is that competition for places which Saunders hopes will inspire a successful promotion push.

He revealed: "All the successful sides I have been in have been fairly settled but I think it’s important to have a strong squad.

"Last year I think we had a strong first XI that could compete with anyone in the league on their day, with everyone fit but we didn’t have the strength in depth that we will have this year."

One player who will not be returning is Ellis Green who is seeking a club closer to his home in London.

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