MAIDSTONE UNITED have signed former Gillingham midfielder Mark Saunders as they battle to preserve their Ryman League, Premier Division status.

Saunders saw Stones lose against Wealdstone in midweek, and looks set to make his debut at play-off hopefuls AFC Hornchurch on Saturday.

Joint-boss Lloyd Hume said: “Mark couldn’t play due to league rules, but we had agreed terms, and he was there watching from the bench.

“We chased him throughout the summer, and need his experience, aggression, and leadership on the pitch.”

Saunders left relegation rivals Folkestone Invicta by “mutual consent” after boss Neil Cugley failed to persuade him to stay.