Maidstone United manager Jay Saunders signs new deal

JAY SAUNDERS has signed a new one-year rolling contract with Maidstone United as the boss aims for his third promotion with the club.

The Stones are third in the National League South heading into Saturday’s game at Bishop’s Stortford after winning four of their last five games.

Saunders, who will celebrate five years in charge next month, led the club to the Ryman Premier title last year as the club continues to climb following their move to the Gallagher Stadium.

As well as being in control of the Stones’ first team, Saunders also coaches at the club’s football academy and helps manage two teams in the Football Conference Youth Alliance.

Stones chief executive Bill Williams said: “The board is absolutely delighted with the job that Jay has done for the club and equally delighted that he sees his future with Maidstone United. We all hope we are able to meet our aims and objectives over the coming years.”

Saunders added: “I am delighted to agree a new deal and thank the owners for their continued backing. We’ve achieved so much in the past few years and I am excited to be part of the future. There’s massive potential at this club and I am honoured that Bill, Terry and Oliver want me to be at the forefront of that.

“I would also like to thank the fans for their support. From the couple of hundred who watched down at Ashford in my early days, to the couple of thousand who pack out the Gallagher every home game. We’ve enjoyed some great times and I hope there’s many more where they came from.”