Maidstone have signed Crystal Palace striker Andre Coker on loan for the rest of the season.

The youngster played against United in a pre-season friendly at the Gallagher in July.

He caught the eye that day, with Stones boss Jay Saunders expressing an interest after the game.

Six months later he’s got his man and Coker is available to make his debut at Gateshead tomorrow.

Saunders said: “It was the first time I’d seen him, I was impressed with him and I mentioned to the management team afterwards at Palace that if you’re ever looking to get him out for games could they keep us informed.

“We’ve monitored him through the season with the under-23s there and then last week I got a phone call from Palace, and a friend of mine coaches there as well, and they said he might be available.

“It was an opportunity we jumped at.

“Obviously losing the attacking players we’ve lost recently I felt it was an area we could do with help, especially losing Jamar Loza through injury, and Tom Wraight as well.

“He’s got good pace, good feet, he can play a few positions as well across the front three and he’s just different to what we’ve got.

“It’s a good opportunity for him to come out and get men’s football.

“I’m confident with the size of him and the ability he’s got that he can come out and do that, as long as he works hard, which I’m sure he’ll do, and he’ll be a good addition to the squad.”

Coker said: “I’m really looking forward to it.

“As soon as I heard about the opportunity I was all for it. I knew it would be a great experience.”