Sam Bone showed his captaincy qualities the day after signing a new deal at Maidstone.

Bone wore the armband for the first time at Southend on Good Friday after George Fowler, who had been due to lead the side in the absence of Gavin Hoyte and Jerome Binnom-Williams, fell ill en route to the game.

Stones boss George Elokobi picked Bone over Roarie Deacon, who’s previously captained the side this season, and the defender thrived on the responsibility.

Elokobi is keeping his options for the Easter Monday home game against Barnet but couldn’t fault Bone’s efforts in United’s 2-0 National League defeat at Roots Hall.

“It was good to give him the armband in the absence of George Fowler, to see what his leadership qualities are, and I thought he did a good job as stand-in captain,” said Elokobi.

“You never know, I might choose someone else on Monday, so it’s all about ensuring everyone is playing their part and being leaders out there.

“It’s not just Sam Bone. Whoever’s in the squad is a leader. When you go out on the pitch, there’s 11 leaders out there.

“Someone has the armband but everyone should be a leader at this football club and that’s the mentality I’m trying to bring."

Bone has been suggested by fans as a possible captain in National League South next season.

He’s one of several options, depending on who else remains at the Gallagher.

“Wait and see,” said Elokobi. “We take it one game at a time but, yes, he’s got leadership qualities.

“Regan Booty has got plenty of it, Roarie Deacon has got plenty of it, Gavin Hoyte as well, so it’s about making sure I give a fair crack in terms of their leadership skills and to see who is going to be here next season.

“It’s all about organisation, making sure you help the players around you and I thought Sam did that well, especially playing alongside Yoan Zouma, who hasn’t played for a while.”

Bone was Elokobi’s first signing at Maidstone in January and the manager quickly made it a priority to keep him beyond the end of this season.

The 25-year-old has impressed in defence and midfield since joining his hometown club and chose to stay despite interest from other National League clubs.

Elokobi said: “When I came in and met him, I looked at the way he trained and within two hours I decided I was going to sign him.

“Since then there have been a lot of discussions with Sam and his representative and also the board has been ever so helpful to ensure we get that deal over the line.

“I’m delighted to have him on board and he’s happy to commit to our football club.”