Maidstone United midfielder Sam Corne speaks about his return from long-term knee injury

Maidstone United are being sensible with Sam Corne as they prepare for the new National League South season.

Midfielder Corne suffered a bad knee injury in the Stones’ FA Trophy victory at Eastleigh in February.

He’s recovered from a ruptured MCL, without the need for surgery, but has sat out the Stones’ first two friendlies, a 1-0 win over Sheppey on Saturday and a goalless draw against Chatham on Tuesday night.

There’s no need to worry, though, as it’s simply a case of Corne working his way towards full fitness in time for the August 5 opener against Slough.

The squad have been worked hard in pre-season but boss George Elokobi, who knows a thing or two about coming from injuries, is managing Corne’s workload.

“He’s pushing the boys hard but he’s been really patient with me because of the injury,” said Corne, who turned 27 on Tuesday.

“I did two days of training and my body was feeling it.

“My knee was fine but where I haven’t done anything that intense for five months, he took me out and I rested, and that’s why I’m not playing.

“The aim is to make sure I’m fit for when the season starts.

“It’s a good way of looking at things. You’ve got to give people time.

“Everyone gets fit at different times and at different stages and when people have had injuries and niggles, you’ve got to try and manage them to the best of your ability.”

Corne is going into his fifth season at the Gallagher Stadium, making him the joint longest-serving player alongside Gavin Hoyte.

It was an easy decision to stay with the Stones.

“Conversations were had prior to the end of last year,” said Corne.

“Where I’ve been here so long, the fans and the infrastructure were something I’ve always wanted to be part of.

“So when it came to signing a new deal,