Margate manager Jay Saunders will leave the club after Saturday's final Bostik Premier game of the season at Harlow on Saturday.

Former Maidstone boss Saunders has guided Margate to safety after taking charge in February with the club hovering just outside the relegation zone.

News of his departure is sure to be of interest to a number of clubs higher up the pyramid, including National League Sutton who are looking for a new manager.

Saunders revealed to KentOnline earlier this week that his long-term future at the club was in doubt after assurances on the football side were not agreed to.

A statement issued by the club on Thursday said: "Margate Football Club can announce that we are actively searching for a new manager to take the club into the 2019/20 season in the Bostik Premier League.

"Jay had a very positive impact on the team when he arrived to help ensure the Gate did not fall into the relegation dogfight.

"Saunders is now leaving the Club after fulfilling his task of keeping the Gate in the Bostik Premier League.

"Everyone at the club wishes Jay the best and we thank him for his hard work and professionalism during his time as manager.

"Mike Sandmann has also decided to leave at the end of the season. Mike has been at the club for over two seasons and has had a very positive impact on the team in both a coaching and management role. Again, we wish Mike all the best with his future in the game.

"Now the search for a new manager begins as the club moves into a new phase of development both on and off the pitch. Positive strides have been taken in recent years and these will continue as we look to establish ourselves as a modern, forward thinking and innovative football club."

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• Jay Saunders on the KM Football Podcast
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