Harry Wheeler is making no attempt to play down the importance of Maidstone's trip to Dover on Boxing Day.

Both sides are in the National League bottom four and boss Wheeler has told his players it's the biggest game of the season.

He went for the relaxed approach in the build-up to last weekend's home game against Gateshead.

But a 3-2 defeat has led to a rethink and Wheeler has laid it on the line with his side second-bottom, four points from safety.

He said: "We've tried the relaxed approach.

"I've just told the players it's the biggest game this season and the biggest this club has had in a long time.

"All we can do is keep working hard.

"If hard work prevails and always rises to the top then we’ll rise but let’s see, because we’re working as hard as we can and it’s not going at the moment."

There are big Maidstone connections at Dover with Stuart Lewis, Jai Reason, Bobby-Joe Taylor and Kevin Lokko all likely to feature.

There's also Lee Worgan, Nicky Southall and Darren Hare on Andy Hessenthaler's coaching staff.

Wheeler said: "It's a derby anyway but it makes it more of one.

"We’ve got to put in even more fight, it’s going to be a physical game, we’ve got to give it everything we’ve got and see what happens."

Maidstone have won only one of their past 11 league games as Wheeler looks to find a settled side.

His unorthodox back three of Simon Walton and Michael Phillips - midfielders by trade - and left-back George McLennan has been a talking point, while recognised centre-halves have been left out.

Wheeler says all three will keep their shirts at Dover, even if he changes formation.

The Stones boss said: "I think you’ve got to be honest and say when you’re winning, everyone knows their best XI. It’s the same team.

"We know it 80 or 90%. There's people like George McLennan who are in the team all day long.

"George will play in the next game, Michael Phillips will play in the next game, these lads are being consistent, they’ve done their jobs.

"Simon Walton was consistent, he did his jobs, talks, clear his lines.

"Jake Cassidy works his absolute heart out and keeps going, he will play again.

"Sean Shields will play again, they’re guarantees, but we need a few more guarantees."

Maidstone visit Boreham Wood on Saturday, followed by the return game against Dover on New Year's Day.