Frannie Collin says Maidstone's decision to announce Jay Saunders' new deal is the best thing they could have done.

Boss Saunders signed a one-year extension to his rolling contract at the Gallagher Stadium at the end of last week.

United were keen to let fans know Saunders would be in charge next season, even if they miss out on promotion.

It's a move welcomed by striker Collin, who rates Saunders among the best managers he's played for.

Collin said: "Sorting out Jay's contract is the best thing the club could have done.

"By doing it early, it puts to bed any thoughts people might have had that Jay wouldn't be here if we didn't go up, which would have been ridiculous.

"People forget this is his first job in management and to have had the success he's had with a promotion and the FA Cup run, he's not done badly.

"Hopefully he'll have a couple of promotions under his belt at the end of the season.

"He's right up there with the best managers I've played under.

"The main thing about him is how he is with players. He's only just retired himself and he's a laid-back bloke, the same as me.

"I've never been one for managers being on my case 24/7 and hammering you every time you come in 1-0 down.

"The players all like playing for him and we feel we've let him down when we've not done well."