Joe Pigott believes Maidstone have the potential to be bigger than Cambridge.

Pigott has joined his hometown club on loan from League 2 U’s until the end of the season.

He’s dropped into the National League to help Maidstone stay up - but doesn’t see it as a step down.

The 23-year-old saw the potential when he turned up at the Gallagher to watch the sell-out victory over Torquay while loan negotiations were ongoing.

Pigott, who is out of contract in the summer, said: “Cambridge are in the league above but if you compare the sizes of the clubs, there’s not actually a lot in it.

“I think personally that Maidstone could be much bigger in the future than Cambridge.

“It’s the fans. People were getting turned away at the gate at that Torquay game and there’s the new stand being built.

“There’s only one way for the club and that’s up but staying in this division first is key to those plans.

“I came along to Torquay and thought, ‘this is a bit of me’.”

Pigott, who played youth football for Larkfield, joined Cambridge following his release by Charlton at the end of last season.

Injuries and illness restricted his involvement and he was keen to get out and play.

Pigott said: “I had a few options and then when I heard about this, being my local club, it was a no-brainer.

“I’ve always kept an eye on them over the years, especially last season, and I’m happy to be here.

“I’m 23 so I’ve still got plenty of time in my career.

“I just want to play as much as possible, score as many goals as I can and try and help Maidstone stay up.”

Read the full interview in Friday's Kent Messenger