GILLINGHAM midfielder Mark Saunders is considering a fresh contract offer that would guarantee his future at Priestfield until next May.

Saunders has been playing on monthly contracts since the start of the season and has been looking for security for the sake of his wife and young son.

He has has maintained a dignified silence over his future and has declined all requests for interviews, even after matches.

But a family friend said: “The club are talking to Mark about a contract that offers more security and he is considering it.”

Since breaking back into the side for the home game against Preston on August 26, Saunders has established himself in the side and was immediately recalled at Rotherham last Saturday following the completion of a three-match ban following his dismissal at Brighton.

The player, who has occupied all outfield positions for Gillingham since his arrival from Plymouth in May, 1998, has been linked with a return to Home Park and a move to Oxford. Last week it emerged that Rotherham manager Ronnie Moore had expressed an interest.