Maidstone United manager George Elokobi says they are always looking to strengthen the squad

Maidstone United are keeping an eye on the market following Antony Papadopoulos’ departure.

Winger Papadopoulos returned to Crawley at the end of last week following the expiry of his second loan spell with the Stones.

They could only name five of the permitted seven substitutes against Slough last weekend and six at Eastbourne on Tuesday.

The Stones led both matches at half-time but lost 2-1 and 3-1 respectively.

Manager George Elokobi is open to strengthening the squad if an opportunity presents itself.

“There’s always work being done behind closed doors,” said Elokobi. “We’re always looking and if the right fit is available, we’ll look at the squad and the depth of the squad.

“It’s good to have Jamie Yila back, playing catch-up and giving him minutes here and there, and hopefully, if there’s something to be done, we’ll take it from there.”

Yila impressed on his first Maidstone start against Eastbourne, where the visitors led through Leo Hamblin before falling apart, while Ruben Carvalho was back on the bench after recovering from his latest injury setback.

Carvalho is a class act but has barely featured due to his knee and Maidstone, who visit bottom side Chippenham on Saturday (3pm) and Chelmsford on Monday (7.45pm), would love to keep him fit.

“It’s been a frustrating season for Ruben,” said Elokobi.

“He’s been working ever so hard to get himself back into the squad and force his way back into contention from the start or in a supporting role from the bench.

“Credit to him and the medical team.

“With Ruben, it’s ensuring we aren’t too hasty in our decisions, pushing him too early and then he ends up being back with the medical team.

“It’s the knee again, slight knee, slight hamstring. He’s working hard to ensure he