Maidstone United sign American striker Josh Fawole

Maidstone boss Hakan Hayrettin has finally got his man after signing American forward Josh Fawole.

The 24-year-old made his debut as a second-half substitute in the Stones’ 2-1 win over York on Saturday, having joined the club after a successful trial.

Fawole, who scored 20 goals in 68 college games in the States, has been on Hayrettin’s radar for a couple of years.

Previous attempts to sign him have proved fruitless, with Fawole joining American club Loudoun United in 2020 and then National League Aldershot last summer.

Chances with the Shots were limited, and he spent time on loan with Farnborough, Salisbury and Beaconsfield before leaving the Rec at the end of the season.

Hayrettin is convinced he will get the best out of an exciting player, who impressed as a trialist during pre-season.

The Stones boss said: “Josh was a lad I tried to bring here two years ago and he was diverted to another place by his agents and I wasn’t really happy.

“Even last season he went to Aldershot when he should have come here. He’d have flourished here.

“He’s got raw ability, raw talent, exceptional speed and he listens and he wants to do well.

“Hopefully he’ll do well for us and I’m sure he will.”