Maidstone United midfielder Devonte Aransibia on life at the Gallagher Stadium following his move from Tonbridge Angels

Devonte Aransibia says Maidstone will be ready for a big challenge in National League South this season.

Aransibia became the Stones’ first summer signing when he joined from neighbours Tonbridge in May.

The midfielder, who started his career at Norwich, likes what he’s seen in his short time at the Gallagher Stadium.

The division looks tougher than ever with big-name clubs Torquay and Yeovil relegated from the National League along with Maidstone.

But Aransibia, 24, is confident George Elokobi’s men will be well prepared for what lies ahead, with United starting the season at home to Slough on August 5.

He said: “The football’s definitely improving with loads of boys coming into the league and loads of boys coming down from higher leagues.

“It’s getting very competitive, with loads of big teams in there.

“I think it’s going to be real a challenge but we’ll definitely be prepared for it.

“With Torquay and Yeovil coming down, there are some very big clubs in this league.

“We’ve got to be ready and make sure we know what we’re doing and I’m pretty sure we’ll be OK.”

Pre-season has been tough, but rewarding, with the squad put through some rigorous running and sprinting tests before a ball was kicked.

Fitness will be a key weapon in Maidstone’s armoury, with the players buying into Elokobi’s methods.

“Everything’s good,” said Aransibia. “I feel ready for the season.

“There’s been quite a lot of running so far.

“We’ve had sprints and agility tests and we’ve been doing 800m.

“It’s been refreshing. In terms of fitness, I definitely feel good.

“The clubs I’ve been at, we haven’t really done anything like that.

“George is definitely serious with everything and on point with everything that he’s doing. He knows what he’s doing.

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