Joan Luque could yet make a farewell appearance for relegated Maidstone United.

Winger Luque revealed on Friday he would be leaving the Gallagher in the summer after learning he didn’t feature in new boss George Elokobi’s plans.

The Spaniard, sidelined with a knee injury since April last year, suggested on Twitter he might be able to play a small part in the final home game of the season against Notts County on April 22.

Elokobi wasn’t ruling anything out when the possibility was put to him on Saturday, saying: “We’ll have to see.”

He added: “Luque is a tremendous human being.

“He’s a fun human being to be around and he’s still here, he’s trying to get fit.

“I don’t know when he’s going to be fit but it’s our duty of care to make sure we try and get him fit and we’ll do our best.

“The medical team here will do their very hardest to make sure we keep following protocols to get him to that point where he feels strong enough to be out on the pitch, doing what he does best, which is taking on full-backs and scoring goals.”

The decision to release last season’s star man divided opinion among supporters.

That was always going to be the case after his brilliance in Maidstone’s National South title-winning campaign, during which he scored 22 goals from the left wing.

There was disbelief among many fans, while others pointed out the potential risk in offering a new contract to a 30-year-old who hasn’t played at all this season.

Elokobi understands the strength of feeling but has made what he believes to be the best decision for the club as he rebuilds for National South football.

The manager also says Luque, whose contract expires at the end of May, is welcome to train with Maidstone if he doesn’t have a new club come next season.

“Luque’s been an excellent servant to us,” said Elokobi. “He’s a strong fans’ favourite but I have to make decisions for our football club.

“I explained it to Luque and he understood it although he may not have been happy with it, and I know that.

“I know how difficult it’s been for him but it’s important I make decisions that are going to benefit our football club going forward.

“Luque is always going to be welcome here.

“Once he’s fit and if he doesn’t find anywhere to play, this environment is always open for him to come and get fit.

“It’s my job as a manager here to keep that door open and he’s always going to be welcome at this football club.

“But he’s not gone now. We’re acting like he’s gone. He hasn’t gone anywhere.

“He was in that changing room today. He’s very much part of us and it’s not going to change. Even when he does leave this football club, he’s very much part of us.”

Maidstone's National League relegation was confirmed on Saturday after losing 4-0 at home to Boreham Wood.