Maidstone United are being sensible with Sam Corne as they prepare for the new National League South season. Midfielder Corne suffered a bad knee injury in the Stones’ FA Trophy victory at Eastleigh in February.
He’s recovered from a ruptured MCL, without the need for surgery, but has sat out the Stones’ first two friendlies, a 1-0 win over Sheppey on Saturday and a goalless draw against Chatham on Tuesday night.
There’s no need to worry, though, as it’s simply a case of Corne working his way towards full fitness in time for the August 5 opener against Slough.
The squad have been worked hard in pre-season but boss George Elokobi, who knows a thing or two about coming from injuries, is managing Corne’s workload. “He’s pushing the boys hard but he’s been really patient with me because of the injury,” said Corne, who turned 27 on Tuesday. “I did two days of training and my body was feeling it. “My knee was fine but where I haven’t done anything that intense for five months, he took me out and I rested, and that’s why I’m not playing. “The aim is to make sure I’m fit for when the season starts. “It’s a good way of looking at things.