Maidstone youngster given Premier League chance

By Matt Bishop

Maidstone United starlet Josh Dorling is beginning a big week in his blossoming career as he starts a seven-day trial with Premier League newcomers Brighton & Hove Albion.

The 17-year-old centre-back shone for The Stones’ championship-winning academy side last season, and attracted admiring glances from the Albion’s scouting staff who watched him on a number of occasions.

The Seagulls have now invited Dorling down to the south coast for a week-long trial at their Category One training academy in Lancing, and the young defender is relishing the opportunity.

Speaking to Maidstone’s official website, Dorling said: “I am very pleased to get the chance and hope something comes out of it.

“I’ve had a good first year at the academy and taken a lot of advice from the coaches and players.

“It’s been great training with the first team during pre-season and getting experience of men’s football ahead of this trial.”

While The Stones clearly rate Dorling very highly, having gifted the youngster time with the first-team during their gruelling pre-season campaign, the club are certainly not standing in the way of their academy product.

Maidstone boss Jay Saunders said: “I am delighted for Josh – he’s a good kid with a great future ahead of him.

“To get the opportunity to trial at a Premier League club is an achievement in itself, I am sure he’ll give it his all and we wish him every success.”