TOM Wraight said he felt the time had come to test himself at a higher level after agreeing a move to Maidstone United.

The winger, 22, agreed to move to the National League outfit from East Thurrock United, for an undisclosed fee - having spent the last two campaigns at Rookery Hill.

But, having spurned advances from the Kent side last summer, he said now was the right time to make the switch.

“I was on holiday and their manager got in touch and it went from there,” he said. “I could have gone there last year but I didn’t want to make the step up at that point.

“Now, I have a good season in the National League South under my belt and feel able to make the jump.

“I spoke to Covo (Rocks manager John Coventry) and he agreed that if something happened I would be able to give it a go.

“This is a chance to train three mornings a week and it fits around my current work too.

“Maidstone’s operation is impressive,” he added.

“I saw their stadium and the new stand is looking good. I know they get thousands to each home match so playing in front of a big crowd will be exciting.”

However, he admits he leaves East Thurrock with a heavy heart, after a hugely successful two years.

“I have spoken to loads of the players and they have wished me all the best,” he said. “I have learnt a lot from all the coaches at East Thurrock. They are great guys and the others can learn a lot from them.

“Winning promotion in 2016 was such a good day. We were unlucky not to win the league that year and we had the FA Trophy run last year too.

“We were written off and we proved people wrong.”

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COVENTRY 'WELL STOCKED' ON LEFT SIDE

Echo:

In charge - John Coventry

JOHN Coventry says East Thurrock United were prepared for the eventuality of losing key-man Tom Wraight.

The influential winger moved to Maidstone United on Wednesday.

And, while sad to see Wraight go, Rocks boss Coventry says he accepts his decision.

“Tom Wraight has been brilliant for us and he is a great lad,” he said.

“He has always wanted to play higher and I am pleased we have been able to play a part in making that happen.

“There are some irons in the fire in terms of signings,” he added, having already signed left-footed pair Brad Warner and Lewis Smith.

“I had a good idea Tom wouldn’t be with us come the start of the season and if you look at my squad, you will see that the left side is well stocked with players able to fill that position.

“I am spoilt for options in some sense. I wanted to keep Tom but it just wasn’t to be and good luck to him.”

Meanwhile, Maidstone manager Jay Saunders praised Wraight following his arrival.

“Tom is someone I have been after for a few seasons,” he said.

“I first saw him when he was down at Witham Town and have kept tabs on him. He did well and a move almost happened last pre-season.

“I am delighted to get it done this year.

“He has a lot of ability, a good goalscoring record and I look forward to working with him.”