New Maidstone United striker Yemi Odubade's goal is to help club into Football League
Published: 00:00, 23 September 2016
Yemi Odubade has one ambition left in football – to fire Maidstone to the Football League.
The striker already has three promotions to his name and will retire a happy man if he can land a fourth.
At 32, he arrives from Eastleigh after a successful career that’s seen him help Stevenage climb from the Conference to League 1 in successive seasons, also playing in their FA Cup victory over Newcastle.
Odubade achieved his third promotion when Eastleigh won Conference South two years ago – and the desire is there for more.
He said: “I want to get Maidstone promoted into the Football League – that’s it. If that happens while I’m here then I can say I’ve had a good career. That’s a serious aim – 100%. The club have got all the attributes, all the foundations to go up.
“I had other options after leaving Eastleigh but Maidstone seems like a family club. There’s a massive following and if we do well, it will only get stronger. I hope I’m part of that in years to come.”
Pace has been a big weapon in Odubade’s armoury over the years. He’s tailored his game but is still blessed with the ability to leave defenders trailing.
New Eastleigh boss Ronnie Moore released him a fortnight ago but Odabade is confident he still has plenty to offer.
He said: “I just think it’s a love of football, ultimately. I’ve played since I can remember. I want to play football for as long as I can and, God willing, that’s another four years maybe.
“I’m still quick, not as quick as I was when I was a 21-year-old whippet but I’ve still got the legs for it."
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Craig Tucker