Maidstone manager Jay Saunders expects to discuss his future in the next few weeks.

Saunders, who celebrates six years in charge next month, is focused on keeping United in the National League after three promotions in four seasons.

But it’s also the time of year when co-owners Terry Casey and Oliver Ash and chief executive Bill Williams hold new contract talks.

It’s been glory all the way until this season but Saunders believes he’s a better manager for the experience as United fight to stay up.

He said: “I think it’s something we’ll speak about in the next few weeks.

“I’ve always had a good relationship with Terry, Oliver and Bill.

“It’s one of those conversations that usually takes two minutes and I shouldn’t think it’ll be much different this year.

“It’s been a tough season but I love it here. I’ve had five or six years of pretty much winning all the time and now it’s the other end of the spectrum.

“You learn more in a situation like this than when you’re winning every week.

“We’ll see what happens but my main priority is keeping us in this league.

“You say you’re a better manager for times like this and you sound like a wally because you’re losing but you do learn more.

“You find out more about players and about yourself.

“You like to think you’re getting better each year but in terms of where we are this season, I know that sounds silly.”

Maidstone slipped back into the bottom four after Guiseley’s midweek victory over Sutton.

They’re two points adrift of safety going into the home game against Chester tomorrow (Saturday).

United won 3-1 at the Deva back in August while the visitors arrive at the Gallagher on a run of three defeats.

Saunders, who has on-loan Bournemouth defender Jake McCarthy available for his debut, said: “Chester away was one of our best performances of the season. We controlled it from first minute to last.

“They’re a funny side. On their day they’re capable of beating most teams but they’ve lacked consistency.

“It’s games like this that we’ve got to start winning if we want to stay in the league.”