Maidstone United midfielder Sam Corne signs new contract at the Gallagher Stadium

Talisman midfielder Sam Corne has signed a new deal at Maidstone.

Long-serving Corne is the first member of George Elokobi’s squad to agree terms for next season.

It keeps him at the Gallagher Stadium for a sixth season, with the news a major boost as United challenge for an immediate return to the National League.

“I’ve been at the club for a long while, the club’s always been loyal to me and when the gaffer came to me about a new deal, it made sense,” said vice-captain Corne, 27.

“I’m happy where I am and sometimes, when you’re happy, that’s where you play your best football.

“It’s been ongoing since December and we’ve gone back and forth over a period of time.

“I’m buzzing to get things over the line and I can concentrate on the back end of the season now.

“Wherever it may take us, I don’t know, but at least I know I’ll be here.

“I think it shows the intent of the club, not leaving personnel in the lurch.

“As a player, especially in football, contracts are sometimes hard to come by so when you get that opportunity at a great club to stay where you enjoy your football, I think it’s only right.”

Corne joined Maidstone from Ashford in the summer of 2019.

He starred in the 2022 National League South title success and this season scored in three successive rounds - including winners against Stevenage and Ipswich - as United reached the FA Cup last 16.

His performances in the cup led to speculation over his future but Maidstone is a good fit for Corne, who lives nearby and coaches youth players at Welling, as he enters his peak years.

He said: “Unless there’s something laid out in front of you, you don’t know, but with my coaching, being local and the fact I love the club, sometimes you’ve got to look where you are now