Jake McCarthy brings Premier League class to Maidstone after moving on loan from Bournemouth.

There are few better places than Dean Court for young players to learn their trade, with the Cherries riding high after climbing through the leagues and boasting one of the brightest managers in football in Eddie Howe.

Defender McCarthy, who’s joined United on loan for the rest of the season, signed for Bournemouth aged 12.

Now 20, he’s seen it all during their rise from League 2 to the top flight and dreams of making his Premier League debut.

To help him on his way, he needs men’s football - and that’s where National League Maidstone come in.

McCarthy, who’s previously been on loan at Havant, said: “As soon as I heard there was interest from Maidstone I was straight on social media to find out about the squad and how they’re doing.

“Bournemouth have said I need to go out and get games in men’s football.

“I’ve not played in the Conference yet and I’ll be going all out to try and cement my place and do well for Maidstone.

“That’s the dream, to be a Premier League player.

“There’s a lot of hidden obstacles, so many things to overcome and you need a bit of luck.

“When you get your opportunity, you have to take it.

“It’s always been my dream to play in the best league in the world and going out on loan and getting exposure of first-team football strengthens your CV.”

McCarthy fits the mould of the modern-day centre-half but is also vocal and enjoys the physical side of the game.

He said: “I’m composed on the ball and technically very good I would say but I love a battle and getting stuck in. I’m an aggressive player and I like to be loud as well.

“You can never have too many vocal players and in my position at centre-back you need to be vocal.

“Don’t get me wrong, I like playing out from the back.

“That’s what clubs look for these days but if there’s a 50:50 to win then I’ll go for it.

“That’s what you need coming into the Conference.

“Players will try and rough you up because you’re young and if you don’t stand up for yourself you’ll get bullied.

“Going to Havant was an eye-opener because I’d only played academy football, where it’s all nicey-nicey.”

Read the full interview in Friday's Kent Messenger