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.

The chance to fight for promotion, with Elokobi’s side all but assured of a play-off place, will be great for his development.

“People tend to look down at it but I think the level is brilliant,” said Adu-Poku.

“It’s definitely testing me as a player and how I can deal with men’s football.

“I’m just trying to improve and I was looking to get out on loan for the rest of the season to get men’s experience.”

Having risen through the youth ranks, Adu-Poku is aiming to play for Watford’s first team.

He’s already trained with them and hopes a successful loan will boost his chances of playing Championship football.

“I’ve been getting minutes in the under-21s and training with the first team at times, which is good experience,” said Adu-Poku. “You want to keep the mistakes to a minimum when you’re with them.

“It’s good because they’re getting on you and it’s realistic because you’ve got to match their pace and play to their quality and their level.

“It’s tough but it can only improve me as a player. I want to make the best out of everything and that’s what I’ve tried to do.

“Going on loan helps because it shows I can handle men’s football. If I do well, you never know what the gaffer might say if he’s looking at academy lads to bring in.”

Stones boss Elokobi and assistant manager Craig Fagan, having played Premier League and Championship football, can advise Adu-Poku on making the grade.

The striker intends to take on board their guidance.

“I’m consuming everything the manager says,” said Adu-Poku. “He’s been brilliant. That’s the respect there because I dream to have the career he’s had.

“Everything he says, just listen and take the advice, and the same goes for Craig Fagan.”

Maidstone visit play-off rivals Farnborough on Saturday (3pm) and host Weymouth in a rearranged game on Tuesday (7.45pm).