Maidstone United striker Michael Adu-Poku speaks about his loan move from Watford | Stones go fourth with midweek win at Taunton

Maidstone’s FA Cup exploits helped them land deadline day loan signing Michael Adu-Poku from Watford.

The 18-year-old jumped at the chance to join the Stones - 1-0 winners away to Taunton last night - on loan for the rest of the season after learning of their interest.

Like many, he followed the progress of George Elokobi’s side as they reached the last 16 of the FA Cup for the first time, a run that generated headlines all over the world.

So when the call came in at the end of last week, the pacy striker knew it was the right move.

“I got a call from my agent telling me Maidstone had been looking at me and were interested in taking me on loan,” said Adu-Poku.

“I was really pleased because I knew about the club from the FA Cup run, how good it is and how well-run it is.

“I was absolutely buzzing to come down and play.

“The coaches are brilliant, they’ve helped me a lot already, and the players as well.

“They’re all very down-to-earth people, great people.

“They’ve helped me settle in quick and have taken me under their wing.

“I just want to do my best to help out for the rest of the season.”

Adu-Poku was playing local football in north London when Watford spotted him.

He’s been with the Hornets since the under-13s and signed a two-year professional contract in July 2023.

The academy graduate had a brief loan spell at Southern League Kings Langley before linking up with the Stones.

He made his debut from the bench in a 5-1 win at Eastbourne Borough on Good Friday and came on again as United drew 1-1 with Welling at the Gallagher on Monday.

He was an unused substitute against Taunton, a match played at Gloucester, as Mo Faal’s second-half goal moved Maidstone up to fourth place in National League South.

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