Quiet man Tom Mills says there’s no need to open his mouth with Steve Watt around.

Left-back Mills has a reputation at Maidstone for saying next to nothing – and he’s happy to keep it that way.

He said: “When I’m on the pitch I’m more concentrating on myself. It sounds selfish, but I get so into making sure I do this or that right.

"I could tell people what to do but we’ve got so many big characters in the team. People like Watty are so loud and get everyone going, so I leave them to it. The main thing is we all understand what we’re doing.”

Mills’ qualities as a modern full-back – equally comfortable in defence and attack – are expected to serve Stones well in their first season in Vanarama National League South.

The 23-year-old is ready for the next level after helping United to Ryman League Premier Division title glory.

He said: “Next season will be a massive test. Staying up has to be the priority and I can’t see why we won’t do that.

“We showed in the FA Cup what we’re capable of against big clubs."