Torquay United boss Paul Wotton dismisses concerns over the 'bogey' team

Torquay United manager Paul Wotton was quick, and right, to point out that the ‘bogey club’ tag, which Maidstone United carry into every match against the Gulls can hardly weigh down either himself or his players.

After all, they’re hardly responsible for that W2 D4 L13 record.

But it won’t stop the Plainmoor faithful celebrating with extra gusto if United beat their old Kent rivals on Saturday

What a shame that Callum Dolan won’t be able to help them this weekend, or too many more this season, after it was confirmed that the attacking midfielder sustained ligament and cartilage damage in the 4-1 win over Hampton & Richmond Borough.

The consolation for United is that they have two players to cover for Dolan – Dylan Morgan and Exeter City starlet Kieran Wilson after his loan was extended to a second month.

The other good news on the injured front is that right-back Jordan Thomas, who also limped off against Hampton, has trained since and appears to be OK.

Wotton also hinted that midfielder Munashe Sundire’s recovery from hamstring surgery has been strong enough for him to be included in the squad to face Maidstone.

The Gulls’ boss said: “I’m sure Maidstone will finish in the top-seven,” before adding his respect for Stones manager George Elokobi.

But Wotton’s confidence that his players are capable of overcoming any brand of opposition is growing, and they have taken 22 points out of 30.

On the selection front, the obvious poser is when, or maybe whether, Wotton recalls centre-forward Cody Cooke to the starting XI.

Cooke has made a series of increasingly positive appearances off the bench after recovering from a pelvic injury, and Wotton commented this week: “You don’t get many Cody Cooke’s any more.”

Up to eighth after a five-game unbeaten run that included a 2-1 win at Hornchurch last time out, Maidstone have signalled their intent with a potentially important signing.

Lanky centre-forward Muhammadu Faal led Worthing’s attack to good effect last season (17gls).

He opted to try his luck in Ireland with Waterford in the summer, but he’s back now on a deal to the end of the season.

Elokobi’s Stones don’t lack physique at the back or front, and they have some no-nonsense experience in midfield with the likes of Sam Corne and John Gilbert.

United snatched a 1-1 draw on the second Saturday of the season at the Gallagher Stadium and then, with a changed side, lost 2-0 at home to them in the FA Trophy.

It should all point to a proper contest, as well as a fascinating contrast in styles.

Saturday’s referee is Will Briers from Brighton.