Teenager Karl Knight has earned a place in Maidstone boss Jay Saunders’ plans this season.

The 18-year-old from Headcorn was released by Crystal Palace, and it’s his versatility that won him a late route into the Stones squad.

Saunders (pictured) said: "Karl was a player who was recommended to me. He had been with Palace since the age of nine but didn’t get a pro contract.

"He can play at right or left-back or left midfield and looks comfortable on the ball – he will be staying with us."

Knight played the last half-hour of Tuesday’s goalless draw with Herne Bay after replacing injured trialist Femi Omogbehin, who rang the club earlier in the day looking for a game. Baffour Addae and Peter Adusei were also given a run out.

Stones continue their build-up to the new season with a trip to Beckenham tomorrow on Saturday and then travel to Chatham on Tuesday evening.

Saunders said: "It’s hard for trialists to come in and make an impression because the standard of the squad is already so high.

"I have still got to make decisions on some players but we will be a lot more settled at Beckenham."

He is looking to bring in a second goalkeeper and has looked at ex-Stones keeper Tim Roberts and youngster Matt Bennett.