Jay Saunders is vowing to pick himself only on merit after his build-up to the new season was put on hold by a back injury sustained while playing with his children on holiday.

He explained: “I was just picking up the ball for the kids and my back went. It has caused problems with my hamstrings and I have got to manage it right.

“I find it frustrating in the dug-out at times, thinking I could do better. I feel I still have a bit to offer but, at 33, am old enough and wise enough to know that if I am not doing a good job and other people are, then I will leave myself out.”

Another player facing a decision about his fitness is goalkeeper Charlie Mitten. He suffered a hip injury at Corinthian but has now developed a thigh problem.

Saunders said: “Charlie’s honest and knows if it’s not right, he’ll retire. He doesn’t want to do that but doesn’t want to cause himself serious damage.

“He was superb here against Dagenham the other week, and knows he has a lot to offer, but if it’s going to cause him long-term damage he has got to be sensible about it.”

Scott Chalmers-Stevens was included against Ebbsfleet on Tuesday, as cover for Deren Ibrahim, and Saunders added: “He is now looking to settle at a club. It’s a decision I have got to make.”

Striker Baff Addaye is back in the Stones squad after a pre-season spell with Dulwich.