Sittingbourne manager Ryan Maxwell on the battle for starting places

Ryan Maxwell cares little for reputation as the battle for places at Sittingbourne intensifies.

Boss Maxwell has added to his attacking options by signing young striker Darnell Kithambo.

The Northern Irishman has built a competitive squad over the summer but they can’t all play and, ultimately, there will be decisions to make.

Bourne were edged 1-0 by Swale rivals Faversham in a friendly last night and on Saturday visit Margate (3pm).

Maxwell wants to see what everyone’s got to offer by then.

He said: “They’ve been told they’ve got this week to show me who’s where in the pecking order.

“By the end of the Margate game, my staff and I will have an idea of what we’re looking to do for the Jersey Bulls FA Cup game (August 5). We’ll have to work towards that.

“It’s two games for people to stake a claim for their spot and I’ve told them this.

“I’d like to think I’ve created a very honest relationship.

“I’m very transparent with my players.

“It might not always be what they want to hear but at least they all know where they stand.

“If they haven’t done it, they’re told, and if they have done it, they’re told.

“They’re always told what they could do better or do more but ultimately there’s no hierarchy.

“If I’ve signed a player and he’s not performing, he won’t start. I don’t care where he’s come from or what level.

“If a boy came in on trial and signed, like big Alfie Bloomfield, and is performing well and he’s been the outstanding performer in pre-season, he’ll start the first game.

“It won’t go on previous, it’ll go on current form.

“It’s a very honest environment where people get their opportunity, and I think that’s why we’ve managed to keep quite a big squad at the moment.

“Nobody wants to go anywhere. They’re all happy to