Jay Saunders has paid Michael Phillips the ultimate tribute after the former Maidstone player retired aged 34.

Stones boss Saunders says Phillips, who has called it a day at Ashford after he was diagnosed with arthritis in his lower back, is possibly the best central midfielder he’s worked with.

Phillips, known to Stones fans as ‘Iniesta’, was a huge crowd favourite at the Gallagher, helping the club to play-off and League Cup glory during 119 appearances.

Saunders said: “I think the highest praise I could pay Mickey Phillips is since I’ve been manager he’s been one of the best, if not the best, midfielders I’ve had play for me.

“I’d have to say that and that’s no disrespect to any other centre-midfielders that have played for me but I think he had a bit of everything.

“He could tackle, he could play, he scored goals, he had that bit of aggression.

“I’d love to have a younger Mickey Phillips playing for me now.

“I’ve got a lot of time for him, he’s a great lad and it’s a shame he’s had to retire but hopefully he can stay in football in some capacity.

“I was a massive fan of Mick. If it wasn’t for injuries he probably would have had a good Football League career. He was a hell of a footballer.”

Phillips’ Football League career at Gillingham was wrecked by a botched knee operation that left him struggling to walk.

He retired from the professional game in 2004 but forged a successful non-league career despite further injury problems.