George McLennan is targeting a top-10 finish after returning to the National League with Maidstone.

That's boss Jay Saunders' aim and McLennan doesn't like to disappoint his manager - just ask Cheltenham chief Gary Johnson.

Three years ago, the left-back was part of a Robins team who were told by Johnson in pre-season they were going to win the league.

It was a bold claim but, nine months later, they were champions.

McLennan, 22, intends to help Saunders fulfil his ambitions at United.

He said: "I know the league well. I got out of it once. It was instilled in us from day one at Cheltenham.

"The manager just said, 'right, we are going to win this league,' so he made us all believe it and we ended up doing it.

"It was interesting because he was so sure and that got through to the players.

"In my head I believed we would win it. It was a good mentality to have.

"I asked Jay what his ambitions were for Maidstone and he said a top-10 finish would be a great achievement but he said anything can happen.

"From what I've seen, the quality in the team is good and there's no reason why we can't do that and more."

McLennan had a spell out of football before returning last season with local club Ashford United in Bostik South.

His career is on the rise again after signing a one-year deal at the Gallagher following a trial.

He said: "After two sessions the manager wanted to speak to me. We wrapped it up quickly and the next day I was signed.

"I've been doing loads over the summer because I had a bit of time out of the game and I want to prove myself this year.

"Going to Ashford was good for me to get back in the game but I wanted to step back up.

"I'm really motivated, so I'm just going to get my head down and do everything right.

"I'm going to put extra hours in when I can and be in the best possible shape and the best mental state and see what happens."

McLennan fits the mould of the modern-day full-back, equally comfortable at both ends of the pitch.

He added: "I enjoy both sides of the game, defending and attacking, so it's an ideal position for me.

"I like to get forward and join the attack but I have the motor to get back as well.

"There are back fours that sit but to be a modern full-back you've got to get up and down."

Centre-half Alex Wynter has joined National League rivals Eastleigh after rejecting a new deal at Maidstone.