Maidstone’s defensive conundrum has been complicated further by an injury to Magnus Okuonghae with the new season just over a week away.

Okuonghae missed both Stones friendlies this week with a swollen knee after falling awkwardly in training and is now a doubt for next Saturday’s opener against Maidenhead.

Manager Jay Saunders has been after another defender all summer and remains in talks with Football League clubs about a possible loan signing.

But for now Kevin Lokko is Maidstone’s only fit recognised centre-half.

Saunders said: "It’s been a big blow. The only bonus is Josh Hare has stepped in there and been outstanding the last few games but it is an area we’re looking to strengthen.

"Magnus is a big player for us. He’s an organiser, he’s got that experience and been great since he’s been at the club.

"He is a loss so hopefully it’s nothing too serious.

"We are speaking to other clubs. I spoke to a couple of people on Tuesday at League clubs, maybe trying to do a season-long loan for a couple for one or two players.

"There’s probably three we could do a deal with but we’ve got to make sure we pick the right one. I’d like to say by Saturday we might have one in but we’ll have to wait and see."

One area where Stones do look strong is midfield after Jai Reason and Harley Willard both agreed deals.

Reason has spent six seasons in the National League and twice won the South division but last year was a turbulent one for the 27-year-old.

Saunders said: "I don’t think Eastleigh had a great season. He was saying he had five managers in one season.

"With each manager, you’re in and out and it was difficult. He said he didn’t have his best season but it was hard to get any continuity. Different managers come in and want to do different things.

"He went to Boreham Wood and did OK but they were not on a great run at the time, so it was difficult. Sometimes that happens as a player and you just need a fresh start.

"Hopefully, we can give him that here because he’s still only 27. He still needs a little bit of sharpness, he’s been doing pre-season by himself but he’s got quality on the ball. We’ll get him up to speed and he’ll be a good asset."

Maidstone host Southend under-21s in the final pre-season friendly on Saturday (3pm).