American forward Josh Fawole is hoping to make his mark in English football after joining Maidstone.

Fawole, 24, was a regular scorer in college football in the US and also trained with MLS club DC United before signing for their affiliate team Loudoun United.

But a long-held desire to play in the UK brought the Arsenal fan over to England last season, with Aldershot beating Maidstone to his signature.

On leaving the Rec, a pre-season trial led to another offer from Maidstone and, after a couple of substitute appearances, he made his first start against his old club on Monday.

“I wanted to come to England and try my luck here,” said Fawole, who holds dual-citizenship.

“I signed with Aldershot last season but I’m happy to be here now with Maidstone.

“Things are going well, I just want to make my mark on the team.

“The football is definitely more physical in England, a lot of the boys are very physical around every position.

“The States was good as well, I just think here it’s a bit more tactical as well, the game’s played a little bit differently.

“It wasn’t hard adjusting because I’m a physical player as well, I can play anywhere across the frontline and having that versatility has really helped me.

“I made the decision before I even went to college that I wanted to play over here.

• Hak's not for changing

“I love English football and I’ve visited here many times, I’ve a lot of family here. I made the decision early.

“I want to work through the ranks as much as I can and I’m happy to be in the system now.

“It’s always a goal to be in the first XI. Where you come from, where you start, it doesn’t matter, you work to get there and secure your spot and keep going as much as possible.

“I just want to make sure that whenever I enter the field, I put my all forward and do my best for the team.”

Fawole’s career path comes with sacrifices, leaving behind friends and family in America.

“I’ve just come back from America for the summer but when it comes to Christmas time I’ll miss my family,” he said.

“I’d love to be around them but at the end of the day I’m just trying to get my career going and keep pushing here.

“I’m all right because I’ve got family here as well. I’m living with family.”