BEN Greenhalgh has backed Concord Rangers to go from strength-to-strength after departing to join up with National League new boys Maidstone United.

The 25-year-old attacker excelled last season for the Beach Boys, having joined from the Kent club last summer, scoring 18 goals and making 33 goals as well as winning the Essex Senior Cup.

And his performances didn’t go unnoticed, as the Stones re-signed the striker on Thursday as they prepare for the National League, having won promotion from the National League South via the play-offs a month ago.

Greenhalgh was not a regular starter in his last spell at Maidstone but is aiming to change that this time around, and he said would miss his former team-mates.

“Apparently (manager) Jay Saunders and (assistant manager) Nicky Southall were at a few of the Concord games last season scouting opponents and they were impressed with my performances,” said Greenhalgh.

“They liked me in the new role behind the striker and they asked if I would be interested in going back.

“Things were different the last time I was at Maidstone. We were in the Ryman Premier and you have to really battle in that league whereas there is more football played at this level and that will be even more so in the National League. That is not to say I can’t handle that side of the game but I prefer playing with the ball at my feet.

“When Concord played Maidstone last season I could see how they had changed their style. They were playing the ball out from the back and had very much developed.

“It will be a really exciting challenge. I played 10 games for Ebbsfleet at the level back when I was 20-year-old but I have grown a lot since then. There are some very good teams in the division, teams that should be in the Football League so it will be a test but one I’m looking forward to.

“I know Concord will do well next season as that is just the way the club is,” he added. “They always achieve things and the mentality is one of success and moving forwards. I didn’t want to leave this season but when the opportunity came about I felt I had to take it.”

But despite leaving the Aspect Arena for a second time, Greenhalgh insists he is not ruling out a return to the club in the future.

“I play golf with the Concord boys so it is certainly not a case of goodbye,” he said. “I will never say never to going back.”

*Concord have brought in full-back Rob Girdlestone from rivals Chelmsford City as they continue to build their squad for next season.