Maidstone United captain George Elokobi speaks about his return from injury

Maidstone skipper George Elokobi says he’ll be ready whenever he’s needed after making his comeback.

Elokobi returned after four months out with a groin injury, playing 90 minutes as the Stones lost 1-0 at Tonbridge in Kent Senior Cup on Tuesday night.

George Fowler and Joe Ellul have forged a formidable partnership in central defence in his absence, with Maidstone on a 13-game unbeaten run in National South.

Elokobi knows he’s no longer first choice as he looks to rebuild match fitness but the team comes first for the club captain.

“First, credit goes to the squad, the boys who’ve been playing,” said Elokobi, 36.

“It’s not about me, injuries happen in football.

“The boys have been tremendous throughout the last 13 games.

“Everyone’s been instrumental in where we are today.

“They’ve been incredible, so that gave me time to properly get myself back.

“It’s been a bit frustrating, bittersweet, because you want to be available for selection, but with the injury I had I couldn’t control that.

“I’m still getting fitter and whenever the gaffer needs me I’ll be ready but it was good to get a run-out.

“I’ve been in football a very long time and my role doesn’t change. I lead by example.

“Gavin (Hoyte) has been deputising, he’s been a great captain and you’ve got a leader like Joe Ellul coming back from injury helping the team.

“Everyone has stepped up to the plate, so it’s not about me, it’s about the squad and the team the gaffer picks.

"I’m always there, I’ve been there behind the scenes to help the players out.

“That was my role when I came to the club, it wasn’t to play every single game at my age, so it’s important for me to bide my time and when the gaffer needs me, I’ll be ready.

“It’s about listening to my body for the