Former Aston Villa, West Brom and Norwich City striker Ruben Shakpoke speaks about his move to Maidstone United following MLS trial with Portland Timbers

Ruben Shakpoke believes Maidstone offer the professional environment he needs to kickstart his career.

Striker Shakpoke came through the academy at Norwich before spending three years at Aston Villa and a season at West Brom.

Hamstring injuries restricted his progress and he dropped into non-league with Enfield at the start of the season.

The 21-year-old joined the Stones last week, having returned from a trial at MLS club Portland Timbers, and is feeling the benefits of working with manager George Elokobi.

“It’s been tough but it’s also been exciting,” said Shakpoke.

“It’s a different environment with a new coach and new players.

“Every day, people know they’re fighting for their places and we’re fighting in the league, so it’s all-round competition and we’re trying to get better every single day.

“Injuries have kind of held me back but now I feel I’m at a place where I’m able to get fit and finally show what I’m capable of doing.

“Setbacks and hardships are a part of the game, so I guess I had to deal with what came my way and just move forward. I had a few hamstring injuries but I’m all good now.

“I feel like I’m getting fitter and sharper every day and with a gaffer like George, it’s not easy to slack off.

“He demands a lot from us every single session, every single match, and that’s only going to allow me to get fitter and sharper, quicker.

“It’s good. It’s literally the exact same as pro clubs.

“The demands and what they ask of you is massive because competition there is completely another level, so here it’s pretty much like being in a pro environment again and it’s exactly what I need.”

Shakpoke went on trial at several clubs after leaving West Brom before signing for Enfield, newly-promoted to National League