Maidstone will continue to play it safe with Jamar Loza.

Forward Loza returned from ankle surgery months ahead of schedule but needs time to recapture his fitness and best form.

He’s been used mainly as a substitute since making his comeback in the FA Cup at the end of October – a situation that’s frustrated both the player and manager Jay Saunders.

The Jamaica international is getting there but Maidstone don’t want to risk any setbacks.

Saunders said: “He’s been a big loss this season for me because Jamar’s a match-winner.

“He’s one of the first names on the teamsheet when he’s fit and right.

“To be fair to the doctors they did say that although he was available, he wouldn’t be at full fitness and not feel the ankle completely for about six months.

“I can see he’s frustrated – I’m frustrated – but we’ve got to pick and choose when we think we can get the best out of him.

“We’ve got to be careful because what I don’t want to do is for him to overdo it and break down.

“He has been a massive blow to us this year because I’d pinned a lot of hopes and a lot of goals on him.”

Loza played in a behind-closed-doors friendly at the Gallagher on Tuesday night as he continues his path to full fitness.