Maidstone United have confirmed Jay Saunders as their manager for the 2013/14 season.

Saunders took over the role on a caretaker basis towards the end of the 2010/11 season and was subsequently given the manager’s job on a rolling contract.

This season he had the honour of managing the Stones first game back in the county town when the Gallagher Stadium opened to a sell-out crowd.

The 34-year-old, who’s made more than 120 appearances for the Stones, has welcomed the news. He said: “I am pleased to get that confirmation and delighted to be given the chance to carry on. It’s especially important at this time of the season when you need to start planning and speaking to players.

“It’s been a great season and we are right up there challenging for the championship. This announcement will give peace of mind to the players, they know what I think about them and the majority of them are players I’ve brought in during my time as manager. I’ve enjoyed working with Steve Ward and John Brook too, and now we can look ahead to the future.”

Club co-owner Terry Casey added: “In Jay Saunders we have got one of the best young managers around. His commitment, energy and enthusiasm for Maidstone United is first class and we wanted to reward that with the offer of another season with us. The timing of this announcement will give the whole squad a boost as they prepare for the final league games of the season.”