Maidstone United boss Craig Fagan named National League South manager of the month for August

Maidstone United boss Craig Fagan has been named National League South manager of the month.

Fagan led the Stones to four wins and a draw from six games in August after succeeding George Elokobi at the Gallagher Stadium.

They’ve taken their form into September, too, with victories over Weston and Tonbridge moving them three points clear at the top of the table.

It’s been a dream start to management for Fagan, the former Hull and Derby forward, who previously served as Elokobi’s No.2.

He’s hit the ground running in his first job as the No.1, assisted by Rob Tuvey and head of recruitment Zach Foster-Crouch.

“I’m proud to get the award,” said Fagan, 43.

“A lot of hard work goes into it in terms of myself, Rob, Zach and all the staff.

“To see your ideas coming out in the first month is nice.

“I’m like the players, I’ve got something to prove, myself and Rob.

“Every day we’re trying to put on sessions to keep the players learning, keep them engaged and keep them wanting to play for us.

“The award will probably go on my mum and dad’s fireplace because for years they’ve seen me wanting to coach and wanting to be a manager at some point.

“I’m receiving it on behalf of everybody at the football club. Without the players, I wouldn’t have got it.

“Without them listening to myself and Rob, without the help of everybody, I don’t receive it, so for me it’s a football club award.

“I’m the spearhead of it as the manager, so when things go right you get the plaudits and when things go wrong you get the negative side of it.

“Luckily, at the moment, everything’s going well but I’ve got to keep it going that way.

“I’m judged on this month now, so let’s see how we go.”

Fagan coached academy players at Hull and Southend and also had a spell