Maidstone are hoping to build on their links with Fulham after the Premier League side made a financial donation to the club.

Fulham snapped up defender Chris Smalling last season and he made his Premier League debut in the final match of last season against Everton.

No fees were agreed for Smalling as he was not under contract, but Fulham stuck to their word that they would return to reward Maidstone. The Stones have also been promised a further payment if Smalling makes 10 first team appearances.

General manager Bill Williams, who is a friend of Fulham manager and former Stones player Roy Hodgson, described the amount as a "small gesture" and was delighted that the Premier League side had made the donation that will be put toward developing future talent.

"It was absolutely wonderful," said Williams. "It was a gesture of goodwill to help the development of future players and that’s where the money will be pushed towards.

"We’ve been up to see them and we’ll be back up to speak with them to create a bit of a link. It can open the pathway for players to come into our club and develop as we do with local clubs like Ditton and Blue Eagles."

Maidstone United chairman Paul Bowden-Brown said: “I would like to place on record my sincere thanks to Fulham Football Club.

"This has been a wonderful gesture as they were not obliged in any way to pass on any money for Chris."