Maidstone United manager George Elokobi gives injury update on Harry Kyprianou who is yet to play this season

George Elokobi remains hopeful Maidstone will see Harry Kyprianou before the end of the season.

Kyprianou has suffered a series of setbacks in his recovery from a foot injury and is yet to feature this campaign.

His quality and versatility have been missed but he may still play a part in the Stones’ promotion bid.

“We might see Kyps this season, depending on how this week and next week goes,” said manager Elokobi.

“He’s progressing well and is working in close communication with Paul Smith, our head of medical.

“When he’s ready, Paul Smith will advise myself and the management team and then we’ll integrate him back slowly into training and see how his lungs and legs feel.”

Kyprianou can play in a variety of roles but it’s at left-back where his absence has been particularly felt.

It’s meant a heavy workload for summer signing Ben Brookes, with little option to rest him.

He was given a breather last week, dropping to the bench against Aveley, although he was introduced at half-time with United 2-0 down.

“Kyps has been missed and that’s why I’m going to touch on Brooksey,” said Elokobi.

“Brooksey was brought to the club to share the games with Kyps.

“Unfortunately, like I keep joking with Kyps, he’s left Brooksey out there on his own and that’s why I have to manage him.

“He’s improved a lot this season but he’s also played lots of minutes, as he did at Chelmsford City last season.

“People might look at me putting him on the bench last week and think I’ve dropped him. No, he’s resting.

“That 45 minutes that you give a player on the bench, it’s a psychological boost for him knowing he can sit out and watch and then come and try to make an impact.

“I’ve done it with him and there will be others that step out and step in.”

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