Criticism of top scorer Frannie Collin has been branded crazy by Maidstone manager Jay Saunders.

United were booed off by some fans following the 1-1 draw against Hendon last weekend, with the performance of 20-goal striker Collin among those questioned.

Saunders, whose side play Grays away on Saturday, has defended a player he considers the best striker in the Ryman League, Premier Division.

He said: “It’s crazy when you think about some of the stuff people have been saying about Frannie.

“Everyone’s entitled to an opinion but he doesn’t need to worry about that. He’s big enough to let it go over his head.

“He’s the best striker in the league as far as I’m concerned. We brought him in to score goals and that’s what he does.

“Nobody can be brilliant every week but even when he’s not at his best, he still works his socks off and the same goes for all the lads.”

Midfielders Alex Brown and Michael Phillips could return at Grays. Brown missed the Hendon game after picking up a knock in training, while Phillips may be risked ahead of a minor cartilage operation.

Fellow midfielder Nathan Campbell (groin) is a fresh injury doubt.