The support of Maidstone's owners and fans is fully appreciated as Jay Saunders bids to come through his toughest time in football.

Boss Saunders is working closely with Terry Casey and Oliver Ash to halt a 16-match winless run and retains their full backing.

Some fans think it's time for a change but Saunders, coming up for seven years as manager, still has big backing on the terraces.

He said: "Listen, it's a horrible period. I've never been through anything like this and as a manager it's a lonely place.

"Obviously I'm getting plenty of stick and I suppose rightly so, we're not winning games and it sits with me.

"I'll keep working hard, I always have, I've not shied away from anything all through my career, until I'm told otherwise.

"It's not nice, it affects your whole family, my wife, my kids get upset, so it's not a nice thing but it's my job, it's football.

"I know what I'm in for. I know what it's like being a manager.

"I was always aware when I walked into the job that one day you leave, whether that's you go on to better things or you get sacked.

"That's football and as long as you can understand that, that's fine, and the majority of supporters have been great.

"I think they know it doesn't hurt anyone more than me.

"I'm the one that has the sleepless nights and will keep working hard to get it right and hopefully we will.

"I'm a big boy, I'll keep going and see what happens."

Owners Casey and Ash are fiercely loyal to Saunders after years of success at the Gallagher Stadium.

Casey met with the manager on Monday to offer his support.

Saunders said: "Listen, they've always been supportive and they'll continue to be so.

"Obviously I'm sure they're not happy, we're not winning games and we're in a run that we can't seem to end but they've said if there's anything we can do then let us know.

"They've been good and I'll continue to talk regularly with them."

It doesn't get any easier for Maidstone with Tranmere the visitors to the Gallagher on Saturday.

Rovers are smarting from a 4-1 defeat by leaders Macclesfield on Tuesday night but remain Saunders' tip for the title.

He said: "They're right up there, they're still my fancied team to win the league.

"I think they're a very good side but if the players can't get motivated for that then I don't know what.

"I've got faith in these lads to get us out of trouble but we need something to turn for us and we need it to happen soon."