Maidstone United director Bill Williams has denied his friendship with Fulham manager Roy Hodgson was behind Chris Smalling’s sudden about-turn in shunning Middlesbrough.

Stone’s prized 18-year-old England Schoolboy international central defender had been expected to move to the Riverside after the two clubs agreed terms.

But after talking with Charlton and Fulham, he was persuaded by Hodgson’s offer of a three-year contract.

"Let me make it quite clear that my friendship with Roy Hodgson had nothing to do with Chris signing for Fulham," said Mr Williams.

"The decision was Chris’ and his alone, I had no influence."

Although Middlesbrough chief executive Keith Lamb believed it was a done deal, the Chatham Grammar School pupil was reluctant to relocate to the north east.

Chatham-based Smalling, who will meet his new team-mates for pre-season training on Tuesday, admitted: "The relocation aspect was just one of the reasons for me changing my mind.

"I trained with Charlton and Fulham’s under-18s, reserves and first team. After talking with Roy Hodgson and Les Reed I decided on Fulham.

"Bill Williams offered advice but he had nothing to do with me joining Fulham.

"That decision was made after I sat down and discussed things with my family. Now I’m excited and can’t wait to start pre-season training."

He added: "Fulham’s training ground is at Motspur Park which is not commutable so I’m looking to get a flat somewhere in west London."