Maidstone United manager George Elokobi has confirmed he never held talks with Joe Pigott about a return to the Gallagher Stadium.
The former Ipswich Town striker instead joined Folkestone Invicta, ending any chance of a reunion with his hometown club.
Pigott Chooses Invicta Over Stones
The 31-yeaer-old, who began his senior career at Charlton Athletic before spells with clubs including AFC Wimbledon and Ipswich, was a free agent after departing Leyton Orient in the summer. His name was discussed internally at Maidstone, but Elokobi has made it clear that no approach was made to the forward.
“Did his name come up? Yes, but the player has to make a decision,” said Elokobi. “He’s chosen Folkestone, that’s fine, that’s entirely down to an individual, so I wish him all the very best. But I never spoke to him. I didn’t speak to him.”
Pigott made his debut for Invicta in a 4-1 Isthmian Premier Division win over Whitehawk, linking up once again with Jay Saunders, his former boss at Maidstone. The striker may face his old side sooner than expected, with Invicta set to take on the Stones in Friday night’s FA Cup second qualifying round at Chatham Town.
Elokobi Turns To Fresh Reinforcements
While speculation over Pigott has now been settled, Elokobi has moved to bolster his squad with the signing of midfielder Teo Kurtaran. The former Walton & Hersham man, who trialled at Yeovil Town earlier this summer, came off the bench during Saturday’s 3-0 defeat at Horsham.
“You saw the ability there, you saw what he can bring to the team,” Elokobi explained. “It’s important we keep that department fresh. He likes to pass forward, operate in tight spaces and penetrate defensive lines. He’s calm in transition and can do the defensive jobs too. He just needs fitness, but he’ll get up to speed in the next few weeks.”
Maidstone’s focus now shifts to their upcoming FA Cup tie, where the narrative will be dominated by Pigott’s reunion with his former club. For Elokobi, however, attention remains on strengthening a squad aiming to make an impression this season.
Writer’s View
This story underlines how quickly rumours can gain traction at non-league level. Pigott’s return would have carried obvious sentimental value, but Elokobi has been firm in his stance and is right to clarify the situation. His priority is building a competitive squad rather than chasing headlines, and the addition of Kurtaran shows he is addressing specific needs in midfield.
Friday’s FA Cup clash will inevitably be framed around Pigott, but for Maidstone it should also serve as a chance to showcase the club’s new direction under their manager.
