George Elokobi is thrilled with Maidstone’s FA Cup fourth-round draw away to Premier League-chasing Ipswich Town.

The Tractor Boys are second in the Championship after a flying start to their first season back in the second tier.

They average crowds of almost 29,000 at Portman Road and are one of the biggest clubs outside the top flight.

Town have a rich history, winning the FA Cup in 1978, while former managers include Alf Ramsey and Bobby Robson.

Stones boss Elokobi and a number of players joined fans at the Gallagher Stadium to watch Monday night’s draw, two days on from their 1-0 third-round win over Stevenage.

The Ipswich tie provisionally takes place on January 27 but could be moved if selected for TV coverage.

“Ipswich is a fantastic club - it’s a huge club,” said Elokobi.

“In my opinion, they’re a Premier League club to be and rightly so.

“They’re playing incredible football under their management and we have to go there and enjoy the occasion and make sure we showcase ourselves and bring the Maidstone that everyone’s been watching and admiring.

“I’m sure the Ipswich fans will welcome us. It’s a fantastic FA Cup match for us.

“It’s going to be an amazing occasion for our group of players who have got us this far.

“The magic of the FA Cup and the dream is still very much alive here.

“In our preparations we’re going to be showing Ipswich every bit of respect leading towards that game.

“We’ll be ready to go out there and compete against a Championship team who are really well equipped to get into the Premier League.

“It’s important we understand the fanbase they’ve got and they’re flying high in the Championship.

“They’re on the up and it’s important we go there and enjoy the occasion.

“I’m sure we’re going to take a few thousand there ourselves to make sure it’s a great occasion for our football club.

“It’s going to be a fantastic day and a fantastic occasion for us all to celebrate.”

Ipswich is a part of the world Elokobi knows well, having played down the road at nearby Colchester.

Portman Road was the scene of a serious injury during his Wolves days but there’ll be nothing to stop him enjoying the occasion when he returns as Maidstone’s manager.

“I’ve mixed memories because in 2008/2009 I dislocated my knee and that kept me out for a long time.

“That happened at Portman Road.

“It was a local derby when I used to play at Colchester and I’m sure some stick will come my way for that because I used to be fierce against their wingers.

“But I’ve got fond memories playing against Ipswich and it’s a stadium I know really well.

“I’m going to make sure our players understand they are going into such a beautiful environment and the stadium itself and the fanbase are huge.”