By Alex Gethin

Maidstone United midfielder Regan Booty is hopeful his team can cause a few upsets this season, as they make their return to the National League after a three-year absence.

Booty, a key man in the Stones' National South title success, said: “People underestimate team spirit in football.

"It’s a big part of our success and hopefully we can use it to surprise a few people this year.”

Booty, 24, had his say on some of the transfer business at Maidstone, praising the signings manager Hakan Hayrettin has secured.

New arrivals at the Gallagher include forwards Sol Wanjau-Smith, James Alabi and Hady Ghandour, defender Jack Cawley and midfielder Henry Woods.

“We’ve signed not only good players but also good people and characters, which I think is key," said Booty.

“Last year we had a really good group with a great team spirit, and ultimately that team spirit helped us achieve what we did.”

Booty also feels the atmosphere the fans create on a matchday helped Maidstone achieve their success last season - and they will need more of the same.

“The support was unbelievable last year, and it helped us get over the line,” he said.

“There was a real togetherness between players, staff and fans and I think the supporters appreciated the spirit between us.”