#SupportersBlog

[fan-of-mulligan]

FOM BLOG: GILLINGHAM SUPPORTERS BLOG SEASON PREVIEW FOR THE 2021 / 2022 SEASON

Looking ahead to the start of The 2021 / 2022 Season, And With Gillingham kicking off the league campaign with a home game against Lincoln City At Priestfield Stadium, I have asked several Gillingham Supporters for there thoughts and opinions on a number of different subjects, Gillingham’s Current Business In The Transfer Market, Steve Evans assembling a squad of experienced players, And Gillingham’s League Position Prediction For The 2021 / 2022 Season.

Answering these questions are the following Gillingham Supporters,,,,, Colin, Trevor, Mark, David, Luke, Smithy, BQGillsFan, Matthew, Andy, Loonpotter, And Gillingham Legends - I want to thank everyone who has participated in the latest Gillingham Supporters Blog, as well as thank those who participated in The Gillingham Supporters Blogs throughout The 2020 / 2021 Season, It is because the involvement of everyone who has participated in the previous blogs which have made these blogs so successful, so once again, thank you, Now on to the questions and answers……..

1. AT THE TIME OF WRITING THIS BLOG, GILLINGHAM HAVE SIGNED OLLY LEE, MAX EHMER, BEN REEVES, DAVID TUTONDA, DANNY LLOYD, AARON CHAPMAN AND RHYS BENNETT, WHAT HAVE YOU MADE OF GILLINGHAM’S SUMMER TRANSFER BUSINESS SO FAR ???

Colin - From what we know Scally has provided a pretty minimal budget for Evans to try and work to. Lee and Ehmer are known quantities and won’t let us down. The others make up the numbers but none of them for me have particularly stood out in what has admittedly been a curtailed pre-season.

Trevor - The signings we have made have been ok but we remain to see if they have the quality we desperately need. Still think we are shopping in the bargain basement and therefore avoiding relegation will be the only target once again.

Mark - Is there a goal scorer in there ? That’s what we need or we are totally reliant on Oliver and that’s a worry.  None of the signings are standout exciting ones but in truth we don’t have the money to make that kind of signing. All about realistic expectations this season. If we keep away from the relegation battle then we should be satisfied.

David - Poor.

Luke - Happy with most of those. Keeping Olly Lee was crucial for the core of the group and bringing Ehmer back isn't a bad thing in my eyes. Bennett strengthens the back line for me and I'm intrigued to see what Lloyd & Reeves can achieve for us. Tutonda I have my doubts over but will be happy to be proven wrong.

Smithy - Generally current business seems okay but I still think, like others I'm sure, we need to strengthen up top. Couple of decent signings there though for me.

BQGillsFan - I think the players we have bought in are great additions, but I’m terrified that we don’t have anywhere near enough depth to head into the new season. We saw how having a small squad ended up costing us last year in the play-off race and with a team now that is even smaller and probably worse in terms of overall quality now we don’t have Graham, Ogilvie or Bonham, the transfer activity so far leaves me very pessimistic about the new season.

Matthew - Not the best at the moment. We could do with at least another defender and a striker.

Andy - It’s great to have signed a couple of the guys who did so well for us last season, plus we know what we are getting with Max. None of the others have yet to excite, but hopefully they will settle in & prove to be excellent additions.

Loonpotter - I think the signings that we've made are pretty decent but there may not be enough of them is my only worry.. I guess time will tell.

Gillingham Legends - I've been pleased with the signings we've made but feel we need at least another three. Think all of the signings so far will add a lot to our squad.

2. AND IN ADDITION TO GILLINGHAM SIGNING THE SEVEN PLAYERS MENTIONED ABOVE, GILLINGHAM HAVE ALSO SIGNED GOALKEEPER JAMIE CUMMING ON LOAN FROM CHELSEA, AND DANIEL PHILLIPS ON LOAN FROM WATFORD, WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON GILLINGHAM’S TWO LOAN SIGNINGS SIGNED SO FAR ???

Colin - I thought Cumming looked quite promising when I saw him play in the friendly against Millwall. He was on loan at Stevenage last season so he has some league experience. I was also impressed by Phillips in the same game. He looked strong and you could see in his touches that he possessed some real quality.

Trevor - Cumming looks a useful addition but Phillips will need to up his game from what I have seen so far.

Mark - I don’t know anything about them so open minded. I think Chapman will be the first choice keeper though, just a hunch that Evans will favour experience over youth.

David - Very good.

Luke - Cumming looks a cracking signing from the reports from Stevenage fans so I hope he has just as an excellent season for us too. Phillips looks very lively albeit a bit raw still so hopefully we can help polish this rough diamond into a very good defensive midfielder.

Smithy - Both lads sound highly-rated so I'm hoping for good things, time will tell.

BQGillsFan - I think Cumming is a good pickup. I’ve heard talk about him for a while and he seems very highly rated by Chelsea and Stevenage fans. Hopefully he can do well for us this season should he be given the number one spot. I don’t know much about Phillips, so I’ll reserve comment on him for now.

Matthew - I was impressed with Cummings in the only pre season game I went to Millwall and Phillips I will have to watch more of.

Andy - After a good first season, Bonham was disappointing last season so hopefully these 2 guys can push each and provide genuine competition for the no.1 spot.

Loonpotter - These 2 loan signings really excite me. They come from good clubs with good reviews and I'm sure will have a very decent season with us.

Gillingham Legends - Always sceptical of these young Premier League loans as although talented they're unproven at this level so always the unknown. I remember everyone's excitement when we signed the two lads from Arsenal last season that were very disappointing. Heard good things about both of these players though so hopefully they can make the grade.

3. CONNOR OGILVIE HAS SIGNED FOR PORTSMOUTH ON A TWO YEAR DEAL WITH AN OPTION OF SIGNING A FURTHER ONE YEAR CONTRACT EXTENSION AT FRATTON PARK, WHEN CONNOR OGILVIE WAS PLAYING FOR GILLINGHAM IN THE TWO PRE-SEASON FRIENDLIES AGAINST COLCHESTER UNITED AND MILLWALL, DID YOU THINK GILLINGHAM HAD A CHANCE OF RE-SIGNING CONNOR OGILVIE, OR, DID YOU ALWAYS THOUGHT THAT OGILVIE WAS GOING TO SIGN FOR ANOTHER CLUB ???

Colin - I don’t have any knowledge of what his on behind the scenes. I was a bit surprised that Connor hadn’t secured a contract before he did. I assumed we had allowed him to train with us as a favour and then when we were short on numbers he padded out the side in those friendlies. There must have been an outside chance he wouldn’t get a better offer but I felt someone would put more money on the table than Gillingham.

Trevor - I hoped there was a chance of Ogilvie signing but feel we have been too generous and been used by him and has left a bit of a sour taste.

Mark - I was surprised to see him play in the games and that did give me hope. Good luck to him though, it’s a short career and Pompey are a much bigger club than us. You can’t argue with him choosing them over us.

David - I thought that he would always go.

Luke - No I thought he was just using us to stay fit.

Smithy - I was hopeful he might re-sign but I think he was always waiting for the right deal elsewhere unfortunately.

BQGillsFan - I think Gills fans were all accepting of Ogilvie leaving in the summer, but the way it’s played out has left a sour taste now. Many of us imagined he’d be moving up the pyramid to the Championship, not staying in League One and definitely not to the team that yes is bigger than Gills, but one that if our ambition is to reach play-offs this season, is one of the teams you’d imagine we’ll be fighting for that spot. Plus using us for pre-season to stay fit, only to then sign for a team in the same league that we’ll hope to be fighting for a top league position, it just hurts a bit.

Matthew - I thought we have a chance to put pen to a new contract but at first I was not impressed with Ogilvie when he first came but he grew on me. The way he left was a bit selfish but that is football.

Andy - It was great for the club to leave the door open, but he’s a good player and so no complaints with him moving on & wanting to better himself, though surely a Championship club would have been his preferred choice?

Loonpotter - It's hard to say... I expected him to go much earlier in the transfer window so as time passed it did leave me wondering if he may be staying.. He's gone now, I wish him well for the future.

Gillingham Legends - I never really expected him to sign for us as much as I would've loved him too. Like most, surprised he wasn't snapped up sooner and isn't in the Championship. Have no animosity towards him, he served us very well and training/playing for us pre-season probably helped us both out (due to lack of numbers).

4. WHERE DO YOU THINK GILLINGHAM WILL NEED TO STRENGTHEN THE SQUAD IN THE TRANSFER WINDOW ???

Colin - It’s less than a week till the League Season starts and we only have one for senior striker. It’s pretty obvious where we need to recruit. The injury that Akinde picked up against Norwich put paid to any imminent exit on his part and that means we can’t immediately free up his fairly substantial wages. The best I can see is us picking up a young forward on loan.

Trevor - We still are woefully short up front and need to provide a bit of variety so a minimum of two players are still required.

Mark - Goal scorer. We are OK everywhere else but we need a goal scorer. If Oliver is injured or doesn’t repeat the form of last year we are in big trouble.

David - We need a striker.

Luke - I would say at least two strikers if the rumours of Akinde going are true. I'm still not confident over the left back position either.

Smithy - Without doubt we need another striker in the door, and soon. I think we're generally covered elsewhere but it's too light for my liking in the forward department.

BQGillsFan - Defence and attack are both a worry for me. I think we are more than fine in midfield and with the two goalkeepers we have signed. We need a LB badly and probably another CB and RB to fill out depth in defence. Then up front, right now we are screwed. Only having Vadaine Oliver and John Akinde, who the club don’t want and is now injured, leaves me worried. Without some major additions up top, I’m not sure where the goals are going to come from this season.

Matthew - Striker replacement for Samuel.

Andy - We still look light up front - and so need back up for Oliver and also 1 or 2 options to play alongside him.

Loonpotter - Left back and someone else up front is still needed for me.

Gillingham Legends - Obviously lacking in striking options. Even if Akinde ends up staying, he is very similar to Oliver and we need an alternative option with a bit of pace. Only one proper left-back isn't ideal either and the squad in general (apart from midfield) is very light in numbers.

5. THE SIGNINGS OF MAX EHMER, RHYS BENNETT, AARON CHAPMAN, OLLY LEE AND DANNY LLOYD SUGGESTS THAT STEVE EVANS IS LOOKING TO SIGN PLAYERS WITH PLENTY OF EXPERIENCE, WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON GILLINGHAM ASSEMBLING A MUCH MORE EXPERIENCED FIRST TEAM SQUAD FOR THE 2021 / 2022 SEASON ???

Colin - You have to balance experience with quality, fitness , pace and other factors. What I see is the makings of a fairly solid but fairly limited squad looking to frustrate opposing sides. The acquisition of a couple more strikers would set us up for another season of long ball tactics. Without further additions I think we will struggle.

Trevor - Although we did require more experience we must ensure they are players with the right attitude and not ones after a last pay day.

Mark - I think he’s looking to make us solid and hard to beat and through that not getting involved in any relegation battles. I can understand that approach.

David - Much better to sign experienced players.

Luke - Very much lessons learned from last summer. Signed far too many youngsters and we got found out as a result. Signed more experience in the January and the overnight change was dramatic. Personally think it's the right call.

Smithy - I think signing much more established players can only be a good thing. The days of signing someone from a local lower league club seem a bit behind us and that's got to be down to Steve Evans wanting to push on much more than previous seasons.

BQGillsFan - Absolutely the right call. I said last summer on this blog that the loss of Ehmer, Fuller and Byrne was going to be a problem as we lost a lot of locker room leaders. I’m convinced having at least one of those guys around last season would maybe have helped the squad calm themselves and approach the play-off push better. So this season, whether it’s the optimistic play-off push again or what I fear, a relegation fight, having that experience is vitally important.

Matthew - That will help us to hopefully get in that play off positions.

Andy - There always needs to be a healthy mix of experience and youth, and last season we did get undone by the more “streetwise” clubs like Lincoln and Blackpool.

Loonpotter - I think it may be coincidence.. its been feeling like he's grabbing the best that'll come to us on a limited budget .. the age and experience could well not even be a factor..

Gillingham Legends - Not sure how intentional that is or whether it's a case of they're the best players that were available. Think their experience can only benefit the team, especially Ehmer and Bennett at the back, where we were suspect at times last season.

6. CHARLTON ATHLETIC, SUNDERLAND, PORTSMOUTH, SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY, IPSWICH TOWN, BOLTON WANDERERS, WIGAN ATHLETIC, ROTHERHAM UNITED, AND OXFORD UNITED, WILL ALL BE TIPPED TO BE CHALLENGING FOR PROMOTION, DO YOU THINK THIS SEASON IS GOING TO BE THE MOST OPEN, AND MOST CHALLENGING LEAGUE ONE SEASON ???

Colin - Yes there are some big clubs with big budgets who will expect to compete at the top end of the table but money doesn’t guarantee success. I think smaller clubs like Lincoln, Burton and Wycombe will be in the mix too.

Trevor - I think the top teams will be further away from the rest this year as I think a lot of them have made decent signings, so I believe there will be two distinct leagues within League One.

Mark - I think it’s a division of two halves the haves and the haves not in terms of transfer budgets if you like . Those at the top will have a promotion battle, we won’t be involved in that. I believe we are stronger than the likes of Cambridge, Morecambe, Cheltenham, Accrington and AFCW though. That should keep us safe from the drop.

David - Yes.

Luke - Yes this season will be a lot more difficult and we're going to need a much better start than last year to even have a whiff of the top 6.

Smithy - For the last couple of seasons it's been said it's the most challenging League One, and that continues. I think this season is going to be tough because of the quality that is flooding this league. Going to be an interesting one I think.

BQGillsFan - Possibly yeah. All those teams listed and there are still the likes of Lincoln and Wycombe to think of too. Even teams like Gillingham, who nobody would have thought would be in the play-off battle as long as we were last year, is proof that anyone can do well in this league. Likewise, Sunderland, Portsmouth and Ipswich have proven what happens to teams that think they have a god-given right to go up. So at the moment I’d say it’s near impossible to predict how the league will play out this season.

Matthew - No I think it will be the most challenging season yet as there are some fantastic teams in the league.

Andy - Put it like this, it’s not going to be any easier, however, there is always one or two surprise packages each season - hopefully we can be one of them.

Loonpotter - League 1 seems to get more difficult every year but the size of some of the clubs  in this league make for some great games, great away trips and great memories.. I look forward to it as always.

Gillingham Legends - Yes definitely, there are some big, big clubs spending a lot of money this year and we will need to defy the odds again to be involved at the top end. But I believe we are capable if we can start well and have more consistency.

7. THIS SEASON, GILLINGHAM CURRENTLY HAVE SEVEN MID-WEEK LEAGUE ONE FIXTURES ARRANGED ON A TUESDAY NIGHT, DO YOU THINK A LESS CONGESTED LEAGUE SEASON CAN HELP GILLINGHAM THIS TIME ROUND COMPARED TO THE FIFTEEN MIDWEEK LEAGUE FIXTURES GILLINGHAM HAD TO PLAY IN THE 2020 / 2021 SEASON ???

Colin - Last season was unusual because of COVID. Hopefully this one will be more of a return to normal running. The schedule is the same for everyone. Bigger clubs though, with bigger and better squads, can obviously better switch their personnel around to cope with the pressures of the schedule. The Gillingham squad looks pretty threadbare and a couple of injuries could put us under a bit of pressure.

Trevor - I think that will be a good thing, once again we will have one of the smallest squads in League one, also it may help the older players recover better.

Mark - With a smaller squad it will help. I like games under the lights though.

David - Yes, it will help.

Luke - Who knows, we had a fantastic period in March when the games were thick and fast so I guess we'll have to wait and see.

Smithy - Matches slightly more spaced out this season I think at the moment will be good for us purely based on the squad, a bit more midweek rest given how light I feel we are currently.

BQGillsFan - I think it will certainly help us, but it will also help everyone else. So overall, it won’t make much of an impact.

Matthew - Yes I feel going away up north on a Tuesday night makes it harder to get back and focus for a home Saturday game.

Andy - Definitely - although our relatively small squad did brilliantly last season and the energy levels were always right up there.

Loonpotter - I'm not sure it'll make too much difference as it usually averages out to be the same for everyone so no real advantage or disadvantage.

Gillingham Legends - With the size of our squad, definitely. The bigger clubs have bigger squads and can rest/rotate more.

8. DO YOU THINK GILLINGHAM BEING FORCED TO CANCEL OUR PRE-SEASON FRIENDLIES AGAINST DARTFORD, QPR, EBBSFLEET UNITED, PETERBOROUGH UNITED AND TUNBRIDGE WELLS COULD WELL SEE GILLINGHAM START THE 2021 / 2022 SLOWLY AS THE PLAYERS ARE A BIT BEHIND IN THERE PREPARATIONS FOR THE START OF THE NEW SEASON ???

Colin - Very few of our players have got ninety minutes under their belts. I think that I’ll show against Lincoln. Hopefully we can catch up with the pack in terms of fitness without losing too much ground in terms of points on the board.

Trevor - The postponements were unfortunate and yes has put us a bit behind and may cost us as we get into the season, there will also be an additional risk of injury due to players being a bit undercooked.

Mark - Yes, but I am sure others have been affected in similar ways as well. I suspect we may sign a free agent or two after the season has started. Not having the squad together for pre-season will have a negative impact and we may struggle to get wins in the first month or two.

David - Yes, the players are behind.

Luke - Certainly not ideal preparation but less risk of injuries I guess. Sometimes a lengthy preseason can cause knock on effects later in the year so perhaps we may end remaining relatively fresh?

Smithy - Not having many pre-season matches is bound to have some impact, it may mean that the team takes a bit longer to gel. Am I concerned by the lack of friendlies, not really if I'm honest.

BQGillsFan - The cancellations will certainly not have helped, but Gillingham always struggle at the start of a season anyway. That’s the nature of having such a high squad turnover every summer. Give it a few weeks and the pre-season fitness concerns will be past us, we just have to hope the team gel well on the pitch.

Matthew - Well at this moment in time lots of clubs are all in the same boat with the COVID crisis but I think it will have given us more rest for the big game against Lincoln.

Andy - We could be going into the season a little undercooked and so IF we make a slow start then fans need to stay calm and not start panicking. Let’s see after 6-8 weeks.

Loonpotter - No.. They should be prepared and ready regardless.. other clubs and teams suffer certain things along the way in preparation.. For me they should be buzzing and ready to get the season underway.

Gillingham Legends - We've started slow the past two seasons due to the big turnaround of playing staff and think this season will be the same on that basis alone. Add into that the lack of pre-season games  and it is a worry for me. Hopefully I'm wrong though.

9. AFTER HEARING PAUL SCALLY’S LATEST “CHAIRMAN’S CHAT” IT IS VERY LIKELY THAT PRINTED MATCH-DAY PROGRAMMES ARE GOING TO CEASE TO EXIST AND SUPPORTERS WILL NOW HAVE THE OPTION TO BUY DIGITAL MATCH-DAY PROGRAMMES, WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON GILLINGHAM NO LONGER PRINTING MATCH-DAY PROGRAMMES ???

Colin - Scally obviously wants to run a fully digital, cashless operation. Personally I like a paper match day programme but the pricing seems to have put a lot of people off buying them. I had heard that the paper programs just about paid for themselves but I suspect the tide was moving in a direction whereby to sell them cost the club money.

Trevor - I think this is one of the worse decisions Scally has made for a while and as per usual shows an unbelievable lack of what ordinary Supporters want from a match day experience.

Mark - Haven’t bought one in years so really not bothered. The whole world has gone digital. Might be a shame for our older supporters who may not be ready or willing to engage in the digital world.

David - Disappointing.

Luke - A real shame, always been an enjoyable part of the match day experience is reading the programme before the game. I've always tried to buy one at home games where possible so will be sad not to add to the collection.

Smithy - I think it's sad that we may see the end of match-day programmes but I think it's a sign of the times that everything is going digital now. I think they should continue personally, it's part of the match-day.

BQGillsFan - I think it’s a shame for tradition, but I completely understand why it’s happening from both a financial and an environmental perspective. I personally stopped buying programmes a while back, except for special matches, so it won’t impact me too much.

Matthew - I loved buying a match day programme as it a good read at half time and you see what the names of the away teams players. If it goes online that would be fine too.

Andy - “Back in the day” the programme used to be on the only way to hear all the latest news - so apart from major sporting events where memorabilia is still popular, I think the day of the printed match-day programme is at an end.

Loonpotter - I understand some people collect and like to have a hard copy of the programme but for me personally I don't buy one anyway so it won't really effect me.

Gillingham Legends - Haven't bought a programme for years so doesn't really affect me. Think it's the way it's going and if it's not cost effective to print programmes anymore then it's probably a sensible decision.

10. GILLINGHAM TRAVEL TO THE BROADFIELD STADIUM TO TAKE ON CRAWLEY TOWN IN THE FIRST ROUND OF THE LEAGUE CUP ON TUESDAY THE TENTH OF AUGUST, HOW IMPORTANT DO YOU THINK A CUP RUN IN THE LEAGUE CUP WILL BE FOR GILLINGHAM FOR THIS COMING SEASON ???

Colin - Cup runs breed confidence and bring in extra income. The chance of drawing a big club in future rounds adds some spice to the day to day business if grinding out results in the league. I honestly can’t see the squad as it currently stands taking us on a decent run in one of the cup competitions. Maybe we can win the Kent Senior Cup left over from last season.

Trevor - Cup runs will be more important than ever but with our reduced numbers I'm sure it is something we will not capitalise on.

Mark - Get through a round or two and we have the chance of a money-spinning tie against a big club. We should take it very seriously. We need every income possible.

David - Very important.

Luke - Always helps to bring extra revenue to the club but we don't have a great record in the League Cup. Personally much prefer the FA Cup.

Smithy - I think cup runs are always important to an extent. If nothing else it could be looked upon almost like a friendly in that Steve Evans could use it to his advantage for the next league game.

BQGillsFan - As always, a cup run would be nice but right now it’s not something I’m starting the season caring too much about. Especially with the League Cup. If we are going to have a good cup run, you always want it to be in the FA Cup.

Matthew - It is always important to get a good cup run as when the big boys come in then more money for the club.

Andy - Winning is a good habit and a decent run always adds a bit of excitement as far as perennial “mid table” teams like us are concerned. However, the league has to be the no.1 priority.

Loonpotter - A cup run is always important and can bring in well needed funds so hopefully we'll put Crawley to the sword and get a decent draw in the next round.

Gillingham Legends - A good cup run is always good for players, fans and finances. But the league is the priority and most important. A cup run is a nice bonus if you can have one.

11. HAVE YOU BROUGHT YOUR SEASON TICKET, OR INDIVIDUAL MATCH TICKET FOR GILLINGHAM V LINCOLN CITY ON THE OPENING DAY OF THE SEASON, AND ALSO, ANY DIFFICULTIES SORTING OUT SEASON TICKET / MATCH TICKETS ON THE NEW TICKETING SYSTEM ???

Colin - I bought a 2 year ST in February 2019. I like to help the club with cash flow. A couple of weeks later COVID became a bigger thing. I had trouble with getting an email in response to the password reset instructions and had to contact the club a couple of times to get things sorted. As of now I haven’t received my season ticket card but hopefully it will arrive before we play Lincoln on Saturday.

Trevor - I had a two year season ticket deal and am disgusted through the pandemic with the total disregard Supporters have been treated with and yes I am expecting problems as the communication with fans has shown little sign of improvement. Typically with three days to go nobody has received their season tickets.

Mark - Season ticket. It was an easy decision. I didn’t like or agree with Scally’s handling of the season tickets last season so it would have been easy to walk away and not buy a ticket this season. Simple reality is I will go to most games anyway so a season ticket just makes life easier.  I also had some good fortune on a few football bets I made last season and they covered the cost.

David - No.

Luke - Yes match tickets acquired. No major issues apart from trying to select seats on your smartphone is quite difficult but fired the laptop up and no issues.

Smithy - Once I gained access to the new site/system I found it quite easy to navigate. I think it's about time we had a more up-to-date system like this so I'm quite with it and I managed to do what I needed to fairly easily.

BQGillsFan - I’ve bought individual tickets this time as I can’t guarantee being available every Saturday this season, so a season ticket wouldn’t be worth the value. The new ticketing system is just a complicated, needlessly fiddly mess at the moment, but I’m sure with time and repeated use, it will be easy enough.

Matthew - I brought my season ticket and yes the new system has had its problems as I could not get on the day I wanted to buy my ticket. I phoned the club and the lady helped put it through. I still have not received my season ticket but hope it turns up before Saturday.

Andy - As an overseas fan I will worry about the new ticketing system when I come over for my first games - and my first trip to the U.K. for over 18 months - next month. Fingers crossed it all works perfectly.

Loonpotter - I've waited all this time for 'live' football and can't attend the first game frustratingly but I look forward to using the new ticketing system very soon.

Gillingham Legends - Personally, didn't have any real issues myself but seems like I was one of the lucky ones.

12. GILLINGHAM START THE 2021 / 2022 SEASON WITH A HOME LEAGUE GAME AGAINST LINCOLN CITY ON SATURDAY THE SEVENTH OF AUGUST 2021, WHO DO YOU THINK WILL BE IN THE STARTING LINE UP FOR GILLINGHAM AT PRIESTFIELD STADIUM ??? (YOU CAN ALSO NAME THE SUBS ON THE BENCH IF YOU WISH TO DO SO).

Colin - I am hoping we will have some new additions by Saturday. I will have to make assumptions about whether we retain the loanees and whether those currently injured are fit to return. My guess is we will go with: Cumming, Jackson/ Bennett, Tucker, Ehmer, Tutonda, Phillips, O’Keefe, Dempsey, Lee, Crowley, Oliver - Most of the remainder of the contracted players will be on the bench.

Trevor - Cummings, Bennett, Ehmer, Tucker, Tutonda, Dempey (if still here) Phillips, O'Keefe Reeves, Oliver & Lee.

Mark - Depends who’s fit and registered I think. I hope there will be at least two or three who didn’t play against Norwich or we could be in trouble. Never nice to lose the first home game of the season.

David -  I don’t know.

Luke - Cumming. Bennett, Ehmer, Tucker, Tutonda. O'Keefe & Phillips. Dempsey, Lee & Lloyd. Oliver.

Smithy - I'm going to pass on this question purely for the fact that there's a lot of new players again,  pre-season has obviously been abit stop start so I'll await the announcement on Saturday. I do however think it'll be Jamie Cumming between the sticks!

BQGillsFan - Cumming, Jackson (if fit, if not Bennett), Ehmer, Tucker, Tutonda, Dempsey, O’Keefe, Reeves, Lee, Lloyd, Oliver.

Matthew - I could not possibly say as I have only watched the Millwall game so we will wait and see.

Andy - I never get too caught up on this player & that player - of course the spine of the team is essential and so we need the likes of Max, Jack, Kyle and Oliver fit and on their games from the very start in what could be a tough opening fixture.

Loonpotter - Cumming , Tutonda, Tucker, Ehmer, Bennett, O'Keefe, Phillips, Dempsey, Reeves, Lloyd and Oliver.

Gillingham Legends - Think Cumming will start in goal having given then no.1 shirt.  Jackson won't be fit so it'll be Bennett, Tucker, Ehmer, Tutonda. Midfield - O'Keefe and Dempsey if fit are certs. Then any three from the other midfielders, probably MacDonald, Lee, Lloyd. I predict Oliver will start up front haha!

13. AND WHAT IS YOUR SCORE PREDICTION FOR GILLINGHAM V LINCOLN CITY ???

Colin - I am expecting a tough opening game with a Lincoln team who I expect to challenge for promotion. Let’s say 1-1.

Trevor - 2-1 to Lincoln.

Mark - Sorry to say I think they will be too strong for us. This game has come too early for us or our transfer business has been delayed – either way same result I think we will lose 0-2.

David - Gillingham 0 -2 Lincoln City.

Luke - Knowing us we'll lose 2-0 but just to be back at Priestfield for a League fixture will be special.

Smithy - I think sadly we might get off to a rocky start on Saturday, I think it could a single goal loss.

BQGillsFan - Optimist says 2-1 Gills, realist says 2-0 Lincoln.

Matthew - 2-1 Gills.

Andy - 1-0 to The Gills - hopefully Lincoln will have a hangover from their play off final defeat back in May - fingers crossed!!

Loonpotter - Score prediction for me is we'll hang on for a 1-1 draw.

Gillingham Legends - Gills win 2-1.

14. WHERE DO YOU THINK GILLINGHAM WILL FINISH IN LEAGUE ONE FOR THE 2021 / 2022 SEASON ???

Colin - It depends on whether we can add some decent forwards. If we can’t I predict we will finish around 16th. If we can add some fire power then maybe 8th.

Trevor - 19th.

Mark - 15th – I think we’d take that here and now as well.

David - 20th

Luke - Definitely in the Top 24.

Smithy - I'd like to think we will finish top half, I can't see that that would be an unreasonable thought. So at this moment I'm opting for 10th-12th.

BQGillsFan - I think I’ve made it very clear that I’m worried for us this season and fear we could be looking at a relegation battle at the moment. Hopefully I can be proved wrong and I can change my tone in future blogs, but right now I think we will stay up with a few games to spare and finish 16th.

Matthew - Sixth I hope.

Andy - 10th would be nice - anything higher would be a bonus.

Loonpotter - I think we'll finish about 12th in reality but my pre season brain will start out by thinking top 6 and continue to think that until maths tells me otherwise at around December/January.

Gillingham Legends - It's going to be very tough but believe we will finish in the top half - 10th.

15. AND FINALLY, IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE YOU WISH TO ADD (EXAMPLE: IS THERE SOMETHING I HAVE NOT COVERED IN THE FOURTEEN QUESTIONS ASKED ABOVE YOU WANT TO EXPAND UPON) ???

Colin - I think you have covered everything. I hope the Chairman’s charm offensive can continue and we can all get behind the club in what looks likely to be a tough season for us.

Trevor - The only thing is the way the club is being run into the ground with no sign of improvement, Personally I think attendances will hit a low as so many people I know have decided to walk away and go elsewhere due to the way the club has treated its Supporters over the past 18 months particularly.

Mark - Some big clubs/grounds in league one next season. You could have asked which away game people are most excited by. Sheffield Wednesday for me – never been.

David - Nothing To Add.

Luke - Carayol looks set to be announced at time of writing so that's an extra pair of legs for us. Looking forward to seeing people back at the Home of the Shouting Men on Saturday and thanks to Lee for the questions.

Smithy - Nothing To Add.

BQGillsFan - No more to add, other than to say I can’t wait to see fans back at Priestfield on Saturday. Here’s to a new season and all the hope that comes before that first ball is kicked. Up The Gills!

Matthew - Nothing To Add.

Andy - Fans are back, it’s been a tough 18 months - if you’re just going to moan then please stay at home and carry on watching Netflix. Up The Gills!

Loonpotter - I just want to wish everyone good luck and let's get ready for the rollercoaster ride once again.

Gillingham Legends - Just looking forward to going back to Priestfield after so long away and think that it will be a fantastic day regardless of result (and weather).

Once again, thank you to everyone for participating in this blog, and if anyone who is reading this wishes to participate in The Next Gillingham Supporters Blog, then feel free to send me a message, and your more than welcome to participate in The Next Gillingham Supporters Blog, The Strength Of The Gillingham Supporters Blog comes from everyone who has contributed, so once again, thank you to everyone who has participated in every single Gillingham Supporters Blog, Now, Hopefully, Everyone has got there match tickets, E-Tickets, And Season Tickets, And we can watch live football inside a football stadium for the first time in eighteen months, and let’s hope that Gillingham can get off to the perfect start by picking up all three points against Lincoln City At Priestfield Stadium This Afternoon - COME ON THE GILLS!!!!!!!!!!!

[fan-of-mulligan]

FOM BLOG: GILLINGHAM SUPPORTERS SEASON PREVIEW FOR 2020 / 2021

Looking ahead to the start of The 2020 / 2021 Season, And With Gillingham kicking off the league campaign with a home game against relegated Championship Opposition in Hull City At Priestfield Stadium, I have asked several Gillingham Supporters for there thoughts and opinions on a number of different subjects, Including Gillingham’s Transfer Activity, The Salary Cap For League’s One And Two, Fixture Congestion, And Where Will Gillingham Finish At The End Of The 2020 / 2021 Season.

Answering these questions are the following Gillingham Supporters,,,,, Luke, Colin, Gills Anorak, The Rainham End, Loonpotter, Shane, RichardS, Smithy, BQGillsFan, Rob, And Gills Debate - I want to thank everyone who has participated in the latest Gillingham Supporters Blog, as well as thank those who participated in The Gillingham Supporters Blogs throughout The 2019 / 2020 Season, It is because the involvement of everyone who has participated in the previous blogs which have made these blogs so successful, so once again, thank you, Now on to the questions and answers……..

1. GILLINGHAM ENDED THE 2019 / 2020 SEASON TENTH IN LEAGUE ONE WITH FIFTY ONE POINTS FROM THIRTY FIVE GAMES, HOW WOULD YOU SUM UP THE 2019 / 2020 SEASON FOR THE GILLS ???

Luke - Good progress from what we had previously. I think the biggest improvement for me was home performances and results were much more positive than they were under the two previous regimes. The long unbeaten run we had from November was also a breath of fresh air for something we haven't had for a long time.

Colin - We did marginally better than I was expecting.  We relied on defensive solidity and picked up points when we didn’t play that well. That said I think overall it was a poor division last season.

Gills Anorak - A steady season. The unbeaten run in the middle part showed signs of consistency that need to be built on but difficult with so many new faces again.

The Rainham End - It was a much better season than what we have witnessed for the last few since Edinburgh.

Loonpotter - It was an excellent season and could have been even better but for the pandemic.

Shane - I think it was a good season for The Gills. There wasn't the usual threat of relegation and there was a nice cup run. It is a shame it couldn't be concluded.

RichardS - A vast improvement from last season and without doubt going in the right direction. Disappointing that the season was brought to an early halt as we could have finished even stronger. I would have gladly settled for 10th at the beginning of the season though so quite content with that.

Smithy - I think generally speaking we had a good season. Had we not drawn as many as we did I think we'd have finished comfortably higher but overall last season was better than expected in my opinion.

BQGillsFan - Last season was a huge positive for Gills. Things had been going so wrong for so long under our last three managers, despite the first season positives under Justin Edinburgh. Steve Evans instilled so much belief and passion in both the players and the fans from the get-go, having the team capable of playing both beautiful and s**thouse football when required. Things started to dip off in the month or two pre-lockdown, but play-offs would have been such an extreme ask at the start of the season. Was nice not to be looking over our shoulders at the drop zone for once.

Rob - It was a shame it ended when it did, as we were much better towards the end of the season than the first. My aim for the season was that we'd safely be avoiding relegation all season, but to finish in the top 10 was fantastic.

Gills Debate - I was pleased with what we achieved last season; I think it was a good improvement on our performance in 2018/2019. I was happy to see that our home form improved, picking up 30 points in 17 games, compared to 25 points in 23 games the year before. I think our main strength was in being solid defensively, but our weakness was that we weren’t able to score enough goals ourselves. It would have been good to have seen if we would have been able to break into the top 6 had the season been played to conclusion, although my feeling is that we’d probably have fallen a little short.

2. LEE HODSON, BARRY FULLER, MAX EHMER, REGAN CHARLES-COOK, MARK BYRNE, BEN PRINGLE, OUSSEYNOU CISSE, TJ BRAMBLE AND MIKAEL MANDRON, HAVE ALL LEFT GILLINGHAM FOOTBALL CLUB OVER THE OFF SEASON, WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS AND OPINIONS ON THE PLAYER DEPARTURES, AND WHICH PLAYER ARE YOU DISAPPOINTED TO SEE LEAVE GILLINGHAM FOOTBALL CLUB THE MOST ???

Luke - I was disappointed with a few leaving. The more experienced heads in Fuller, Ehmer and Byrne probably hurt most. They were all instrumental in our recent successes and experience heads in a rather youthful team are always incredibly important in my opinion. Would have loved RCC to stay but he's got a great opportunity at Ross County so best of luck to him.

Colin - Steve Evans is known for a high turnover of personnel. Of those who have move on I will miss Barry Fuller for his commitment and energy. I have always liked Ehmer too but maybe it was time for a change for both him and the club. Byrne has had a torrid time with injuries and hasn’t been at his best. Pringle was never given a chance oddly for an Evans old boy. The rest weren’t the best at this level.

Gills Anorak - LEE HODSON - Gaffer obviously didn’t want him in the end. Didn’t do anything to make me disagree with his decision. BARRY FULLER - I think it was time for Barry to go as I thought he looked a lot slower as the season progressed. Forever grateful for his service. MAX EHMER - Disappointed but he’s not irreplaceable REGAN CHARLES-COOK - Showed potential but probably best for his career he goes and gets regular minutes MARK BYRNE - Disappointed but he’s not irreplaceable BEN PRINGLE - Would like to have seen more of him after flashes of quality last season. OUSSEYNOU CISSE - Correct decision. Thought it was an odd signing TJ BRAMBLE - Never seen him play AND MIKAEL MANDRON - Disappointed, but he’s not irreplaceable.

The Rainham End - I'm disappointed with the departure of Charles-Cook, Byrne and Mandron. Charles-Cook wasn't given enough chances. Byrne was one of our best players until his injury and Mandron was really starting to show what he could do and was capable of towards the end of the season.

Loonpotter - Most disappointed to see Mark Byrne and Max Ehmer leave. Barry was possibly the right time and the rest were bit part players anyway.

Shane - I feel Barry Fuller had another season in him even if it was from the bench. It is unfortunate the fans were unable to say goodbye properly at the end of the season.

RichardS - The decision to release the players is all part of SE’s plan so I have no problem with that. Max Ehmer, Barry Fuller and Mark Byrne are for me the 3 players that have contributed most and go with good wishes as far as I'm concerned. Not to worried about the rest in truth as they were inconsistent and for me never part of the plan to feature regularly. In a way it also shows the progress we have made to allow these players to move on.

Smithy - By far the player I'm most disappointed to see leave was Max, a valuable asset and one I'd have loved to have kept hold of. Mark Byrne was also another that I'd liked to have kept as I think he's got more to give. Barry Fuller is a legend and I loved seeing him with us again last season but needs must I guess and I genuinely wish him well. I didn't particularly want Regan or Mandron to leave either but for the club maybe it was the right decision. Other than that if I'm completely honest I wasn’t too fussed by the rest.

BQGillsFan - It's certainly been a busy exit door at Priestfield. Let's start with the ones I'm not worried about seeing leave. Hodson, Cisse, Bramble and Mandron were all players that just didn't work for us. Mandron was capable of occasionally being good, but with the other attacking options we have he won't be a big loss. Now for the other four guys. Charles-Cook had a lot of promise about him and whenever he played he seemed to do well. Was my one real issue with Evans last season that RCC wasn't getting enough minutes, so I can understand why he left. I also said at the beginning of the window that losing Ehmer, Fuller and Byrne all at once could be a disaster. A lot of leadership and experience at the club all gone in one fail swoop. Ogilvie now our longest serving player is a possible banana peel when the season gets to the crunch period.

Rob - Hodson was always going to leave after struggling to move such a distance from Scotland, Cisse had been gone for most of the season anyway and Pringle barely featured on his short term deal. I am surprised Mandron left, but after signing Akinde he was deemed surplus to requirements. I'm surprised Byrne left as he'd been a regular before his injury and I was expecting Fuller to remain as a backup. I am, however, surprised that Max Ehmer left. Our captain and one of our best players, it seems Bristol Rovers' financial muscle was being flexed with his capture and the splurging of £100k+ on Hanlan.

Gills Debate - Mixed feelings about the senior players that left the club, I thought it was the correct decision to let some of them leave (Hodson, Pringle and Cisse), and I thought it was the correct decision to not offer Byrne a new deal, but to invite him back for pre-season training. Personally, I’d have kept Fuller, I think that whilst I probably wouldn’t have thought that he’d be the 1st choice RB this season, I think he could have been a useful player to have as a back-up, and a very useful player to have around the dressing room. I agreed with the decisions to offer new deals to Charles-Cook and Mandron, and would have liked to have seen them stay, but I think the one that I was most disappointed to see leave was Ehmer, given that he played well last season and was obviously the club captain. Good luck to all of them in the future.

3. GILLINGHAM HAVE BEEN VERY ACTIVE IN THE SUMMER TRANSFER WINDOW (SIGNING RYAN JACKSON, VADAINE OLIVER, JACOB MELLIS, JORDAN GRAHAM, ALEX MACDONALD, KYLE DEMPSEY, ROBBIE MCKENZIE AND CHRISTIAN MAGHOMA) WHAT HAVE YOU MADE OF GILLINGHAM’S SUMMER TRANSFER BUSINESS SO FAR, AND ALSO, WHICH SIGNING ARE YOU MOST EXCITED ABOUT ???

Luke - Certainly been some shrewd business this Summer by Mr Evans.  Getting Graham back was important as another member of last season's squad to add to the stability. Dempsey looks a cracking signing and hopefully can add some extra creativity in the middle. Not convinced by the hype Mellis has been receiving and with a pending court case its certainly going to be some unneeded publicity coming our way again which is disappointing.

Colin - Kyle Dempsey is the standout signing. I think he will be one of our best players this season. The young loanees might work out or they might not. The others are OK signings but nothing to get excited about as far as I can see. Hopefully someone will surprise me.

Gills Anorak - So far so good. I’m expecting big seasons from Graham, Dempsey and Maghoma.

The Rainham End - I think the summer signings have been great and looking forward to see what players like Oliver, Graham and Dempsey adapt. I feel we will be in for some poor games starting off as we need to gel because once more we have an almost new squad.

Loonpotter - The summer signings have been extremely impressive. Kyle Dempsey looks an absolute steal and I cant wait to see Trae Coyle in action..  The CBs look to be be exciting prospects too.

Shane - I think we have made some promising looking signings. I am looking forward to seeing what the pair from Arsenal will bring to the team.

RichardS - It looks as if the signings are all thought through and positive with a good mix in all positions and on paper have great potential. Delighted to have Ryan Jackson back and personally  I would not have let him go in the first place. Great pace, good crosser and chips in with goals. Looking forward to seeing what all the new signings can produce but this is a great opportunity for Kyle Dempsey particularly to make a name for himself. My other prediction is Vadaine Oliver will have a good season.

Smithy - I think this summer has been really interesting in terms of the signings and I still feel there's more up Evans sleeves. However so far so very good. Kyle Dempsey is definitely exciting me already, along with Jordan Graham who seems a great guy as well. If I'm honest I'm happy with all the permanent signings we've made so far. Jacob Mellis was also another one that made me ooohh!!

BQGillsFan - Evans has definitely been looking to stamp his mark on the team this window and given the circumstances with Covid-19 and a lack of funds, I think he's done incredibly well to make the signings he has. Shows the power of having a manager with a strong reputation at this level, players want to play for him. It's great to see Jordan Graham back and I'd say he's probably the signing I'm most excited to see once he gets a longer run with the team.

Rob - I think we have made some very promising signings. Jackson was solid in his previous spell at the club but his performances decreased in line with the team's fitness. Oliver looks to be a like-for-like replacement for Mandron, while we have strongly strengthened the midfield with the new captain, Dempsey, and the promising Robertson.

Gills Debate - Overall, I think the recruitment has been reasonable, in terms of the permanent signings Kyle Dempsey’s probably the one that excites me the most, with his good pedigree at this level and having played nearly 200 league games at the age of 24. I watched our first competitive game against Southend, and he was probably our best player in my opinion – He looks very comfortable on the ball. I think we are still a bit light in numbers at the time of writing, but Evans is clearly still working on deals – I think a smaller/faster/’fox in the box’ type striker is definitely one signing that I’d like us to make.

4. GILLINGHAM HAVE SIGNED ZECH MEDLEY AND TRAE COYLE ON LOAN FROM ARSENAL, WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS AND OPINIONS ON BOTH PLAYERS SIGNING FOR GILLINGHAM ON A SEASON LOAN LOAN ???, AND ALSO, DO YOU THINK THE SIGNINGS OF ZECH MEDLEY AND TRAE COYLE IS THE START OF A SUCCESSFUL LOAN AGREEMENT BETWEEN BOTH CLUBS, AND GILLINGHAM WILL SIGN YOUNG PLAYERS ON LOAN FROM ARSENAL WHO NEED TO GAIN EXPERIENCE PLAYING COMPETITIVE FIRST TEAM FOOTBALL ON A REGULAR BASIS ???

Luke - Excited about both of the Arsenal youngsters. Medley being a Medway boy and having had Europa League experience is a good positive for the team. Coyle being nominated for the golden boy award where players like Erling Haaland have also been nominated shows there is incredible potential there. In terms of a permanent link with Arsenal I'm not overly sure, we developed two Southampton youngsters well last season but haven't seen any other players come in from St. Mary's yet.

Colin - Given our budget we have to play the loan market. These two seem to be well regarded. I would rather we developed or signed young prospects with a sell on value but that’s not easy to accomplish.

Gills Anorak - Both players seem to have a lot of potential so good business. I don’t think it’s the start of anything otherwise we would have signed players from Southampton this season instead.

The Rainham End - The signing of these two Arsenal youngsters in loan is some great business. Having gone to school with Medley we know here at The Rainham End he will give it his all and will put in 100% effort as all he wants is to play football and his attitude is honestly one of the best towards the game. I hope this is the start to a great agreement and friendship between us and Arsenal!

Loonpotter - It would be great for us if we struck a lengthy friendship with a club like Arsenal. These 2 lads look exceptionally talented and can only help us in a push for promotion.

Shane - I think bringing in players on loan from clubs higher up the football pyramid is beneficial for all parties involved. It would be nice to see Gillingham build a partnership with a team such as Arsenal. It could bring in some promising talent to the club.

RichardS - Very happy with both signings and both have contributed in games in the last few days. Medley has good presence and distribution. Coyle will be a nuisance. As for a successful loan agreement it will depend on many aspects IE how are players treated with us? How long will SE be with us,? I see no reason why we couldn't build a  good relationship.

Smithy - If I'm honest I'd not heard of either Zech or Trae prior to the announcement of them joining us. I think Zech could be a big force in the back line but of the two I am most excited by Trae. From what I've seen already he has got me thinking he's going to give everything he's got in every match he plays. Really looking forward to seeing him live, when we get back to Priestfield of course. Youngsters will be at Arsenal because they are good young talents, and if we can forge a relationship between the two clubs going forwards I think that will only ever be good for both clubs so it's something I'd like to see happen.

BQGillsFan - Two young prospects, highly rated at a top side like Arsenal. Can't ask for much more really. I'm surprised it's taken us so long to utilise the proximity of Arsenal in the window, but I'm not sure it will lead to a major working relation between the clubs. We've made "double-signings" from Premier League sides before and then haven't worked with them the following seasons. Bournemouth and Southampton come to mind in recent years. I'd like to see the two sides work together in the future as Arsenal produce a lot of top class young talents, but I'm not certain it will happen every year for us.

Rob - I'm glad we're signing these types of players. Both come highly rated and will be keen to gain experience and game time. It's exciting to have young players and we do have a good success rate when signing loanees from the Premier League. It's something we need to look at more and I'm glad we're doing it.

Gills Debate - Both seem to be quite highly thought of at Arsenal based on the comments that I’ve seen so I’m hopeful that they can add some good quality to the side. It’s obviously the 1st loan move away from Arsenal for both of them, so it’s slightly difficult to know exactly what to expect as they’re playing at this level for the first time, but Coyle’s inclusion on the Golden Boy shortlist makes him specifically look like a very promising addition, and it’s good that he’s got off the mark already with his goal against Crawley. I guess only time will tell as to whether this is the start of a longer term agreement with Arsenal, it could be that Evans/Raynor have contacts there that our next manager(s) may not, but if we do start to bring players in from Arsenal more regularly then hopefully that will only prove to be a good thing for Gills, Arsenal and the players themselves.

5. WHICH PLAYER FROM LAST SEASON’S SQUAD CAN YOU SEE HAVING A MAGNIFICENT SEASON FOR GILLINGHAM DURING THE 2020 / 2021 SEASON ???

Luke - Magnificent? One would assume Messrs Ogilvie, Bonham and Tucker again.

Colin - Tucker broke through last season and I am surprise Scally hasn’t cashed in. If he stays I think he will have a big season for us. Ogilvie really stepped up last season too and again I thought he might have been sold. We certainly have a lot of defensive talent. Willock needs to show he is worth his wages..

Gills Anorak - Ogilvie.

The Rainham End - Once again I can see Ogilvie having a great season here with the Gills.

Loonpotter - Not many to choose from but I'd say Bonham, Ogilvie again and maybe Akinde.

Shane - Tucker. He had a great break through season and I am sure he will only improve this season.

RichardS - Jack Tucker. If he continues with his progress and gains experience I can only see him going the way of John Egan. At least to the championship. He has plenty of time though so no hurry which will do him no harm.

Smithy - Jack Bonham for me will have a great season. Connor Ogilvie I think could also really push on and continue to shine. I'd like to see Stuart O'Keefe become more regular also.

BQGillsFan - Well most of the squad from last season has gone this summer so it's not a big pool to choose from. Bonham and Ogilvie are already magnificent so be cheap to say those two, Tucker the same really. I'll go with Stuart O'Keefe. Can see him really stepping into the role vacated by Byrne's departure, so hopefully he can have a big season for us.

Rob - The two main ones are Ogilvie and Tucker. Both were our best players last season and I can only see that continuing. Tucker will continue to develop and either get sold in January or at the end of the season, while Ogilvie might have the same fate.

Gills Debate - I’ll go for perhaps the obvious choice in Ogilvie, a bit of a revelation at left-back last season after previously looking much more secure when playing in the centre of defence, and the scorer of some crucial goals in 1-0 wins – He was my pick for the POTY award. Already a goal to his name in 2020/2021 and if he continues to improve and perform in the way that he did last season, then he’ll have a very good season.

  6. MATT BAKER, RONNIE NELSON, HENRY WOODS, HARVEY LINTOTT, AND TOBY BANCROFT, HAVE ALL BEEN GIVEN OPPORTUNITIES TO PLAY FOR GILLINGHAM’S FIRST TEAM IN PRE-SEASON, WHICH YOUNG PLAYER(S) CAN YOU SEE BREAKING INTO GILLINGHAM’S FIRST TEAM THIS SEASON ???

Luke - Would imagine Woods is the only one with a real shot at making it into the first team. Evans' comments at the weekend stating Bancroft is going out on loan would suggest the rest will only get used in Kent Senior Cup games if that.

Colin - Much of the local talent is mopped up by the London clubs academies. We never seem to produce forward players. I haven’t heard rave reviews about any of the current crop.

Gills Anorak - Hard to say without seeing any of them play regularly. I have high hopes for Baker as he has played for Wales.

The Rainham End - Toby Bancroft I feel is a great prospect here at Gillingham. Having watched him in a number of games I feel he is the sort of player we could do with playing up front beside Akinde or Oliver. He's quick, can finish and is technically gifted. I also rate Henry Woods so will be good to see him make a few appearances for the Gills this season.

Loonpotter - Possibly Bancroft and/or Woods.

Shane - I think Henry Woods is the most likely to see first team opportunities.

RichardS - Hopefully several will be given a chance. I will be interested particularly to see how Henry Woods gets on.

Smithy - I don't see any of the youngsters really breaking into the first team squad this season. I think I've heard somewhere that Toby Bancroft could be going out on loan, however I do think that we'll see Henry Woods on the bench and possibly getting in some minutes but not a breakthrough this season for me.

BQGillsFan - I can't say I know too much about the youth prospects we have available to us this season, but I know a lot of people speak well of Henry Woods so I wouldn't be surprised to see him put in a few decent showings for us this year.

Rob - Henry Woods seems the obvious choice, having played in the Trophy game the other day. He'll feature in the smaller cups and be regular on the bench in the event of injuries.

Gills Debate - I think Henry Woods has got the best chance, I recall hearing an interview that Evans did with Radio Kent a few months ago where he said that he would be going out on loan this season, but from his comments on the club website when Woods signed his new deal it sounds like he could potentially stay and be in and around the 1st team squad – I watched the pre-season friendlies against Reading and Colchester and from what I saw he didn’t look out of place with the other first team players. It sounds like Bancroft will be heading out on loan this season so hopefully he’ll do well there and can then maybe push for more of a first team place in 2021/2022.

7. GILLINGHAM WON 1-0 AGAINST SOUTHEND UNITED IN THE FIRST ROUND OF THE LEAGUE CUP, WITH CONNOR OGILVIE SCORING THE WINNING GOAL, WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS AND OPINIONS ON GILLINGHAM’S FIRST COMPETITIVE MATCH OF THE 2020 / 2021 SEASON ???

Luke - It’s a good workout but effectively another Pre-season game in my opinion. Its not a competition we have good history in but its more match time for the boys for the more important Hull game next Saturday and it’s always nice to kickstart the season with a win.

Colin - I wasn’t that impressed to be honest. The plus side was hanging on when a man short. Southend were pretty poor though. Dempsey can hopefully become a set piece expert for us and Ogilvie will hopefully get some more important goals.

Gills Anorak - Slow start. Was like a pre season game really. Glad we got through but we need more games quickly to get up to speed.

The Rainham End - I feel we started the game slow. We will find this in games to come as I've said before we will need time to gel as a squad but once we got into the game against Southend we controlled it right up until Jackson getting sent off.

Loonpotter - Once again Ogilvie came up with the goods... It felt like we struggled to find our feet a little but I'm confident by the time we play Hull we'll be ready.

Shane - A positive start. The first few games are always going to be a bit harder whilst the new players settle in.

RichardS - We'll take the result. Nothing more nothing less in terms of a feel for what we will do from here. A tie against Wolves would be good to look forward to. That would be a very tasty tie.

Smithy - The Southend game almost felt a bit like an extra pre-season friendly as we haven't started the league campaign yet but it was a win and a win is always good for morale.

BQGillsFan - Unfortunately I didn't get to see the match due to work, but having seen the highlights it wasn't exactly a thrilling watch was it. However, winning when you aren't playing well is a sign of a good team and given the main issue seems to be just a lack of match fitness and fluidity, that's something that will come with time. Given the curtailing of last season and the lack of a proper pre-season, I think the first few weeks are going to be rough for everyone in the league.

Rob - I didn't watch or listen to the game, but it's a promising start. A win is a win, although we were still missing a few players from our squad (e.g. Graham) and new signings (e.g. Robertson). A good win in the trophy too, even though we seemed to fall away towards the end.

Gills Debate - I didn’t think we started the game well, I thought Southend were probably the better team before we took the lead, but then we were much improved up until Jackson’s red card. It was a bit attack vs defence after that, we were possibly a little fortunate that Southend didn’t score after they hit the post twice, but I suppose ultimately it was job done and it’s always good to start off with a win!

8. LOOKING AT SOME OF THE CLUBS WHO WILL BE PLAYING IN LEAGUE ONE FOR THE UP AND COMING SEASON (SUNDERLAND, PORTSMOUTH, IPSWICH TOWN, OXFORD UNITED, CHARLTON ATHLETIC, HULL CITY, WIGAN ATHLETIC, FLEETWOOD TOWN AND PETERBOROUGH UNITED) DO YOU THINK THE 2020 / 2021 LEAGUE ONE SEASON WILL BE THE TOUGHEST AND MOST COMPETITIVE SEASON THAT LEAGUE ONE HAS SEEN FOR QUITE SOMETIME ???

Luke - I will discredit Wigan due to the amount of good players they've lost and the off the field issues still not being resolved (at time of writing). Charlton also have issues on and off the pitch and only have one fit recognised defender so I think they will struggle. Posh and Oxford will be the toughest teams in the league for me but I don't buy into it’s the toughest League One for a while just yet.

Colin - Past reputations count for nothing. Al the clubs you name have been under performers recently. Wycombe showed that it’s not all about being a so called big club.

Gills Anorak - Maybe. I think the league is strong and we will do well to finish 10th again as we have a lot of new players to gel together.

The Rainham End - This season will be one tough journey but we have proven we can keep up with the favourites of the league and I feel we will shock a number of those teams.

Loonpotter - Some incredible clubs involved this year... A very exciting league ahead but a very tough season also..

Shane - On paper the league does look exceptionally difficult. But I think teams underestimate the strength of the "smaller" clubs in this division. As long as Gills can  play well and maintain their form who knows what could happen.

RichardS - Highly likely. Some huge clubs in our league and it doesn't get any easier. The eventual league winners will likely be one of the above clubs. Let's face it though we love playing bigger clubs and tend to get good results when we do.

Smithy - I don't see that the league will any tougher than last season. For example Sunderland and Ipswich were tipped to go back up, they didn't and we kept them both at bay. Im also not fearing the clubs that have dropped from the Championship. Yes I think it will be competitive but it would be boring if it wasn't. It is true though that some very big clubs are all now grouped in League One so I am excited to see these teams.

BQGillsFan - A lot of established teams are in League One this season, a lot of them carrying horrible baggage from years of poor management at the upper levels. We saw with Ipswich last season and Sunderland over the last two years they've been in this division, that reputation means nothing. Several "bigger" teams think they'll walk League One and get a rude awakening from the likes of Gillingham. So it's going to be competitive, but I think Gills are capable of doing well despite the reputation of the opposition they'll be up against.

Rob - Yes and no. There's some big names in the division but also some clubs with big expenses and reliance on match-day income. I can see a few clubs having financial difficulties this season - potentially one or two of the bigger clubs.

Gills Debate - I think it has the potential to be yes, and looking at our early fixtures we’ve got quite a tough looking start, especially in October where we’ve got a run of 4 games in 12 days against Portsmouth, Fleetwood, Ipswich and Sunderland – If we can start well with some of the tougher looking fixtures that we’ve got, then I think it will put us in good stead for the rest of the season.

9. LEAGUE ONE AND LEAGUE TWO CLUBS HAVE VOTED FOR THE INTRODUCTION OF A SALARY CAP (£2,500,000 FOR LEAGUE ONE CLUBS, AND £1,500,000 FOR LEAGUE TWO CLUBS) WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON A SALARY CAP BEING INTRODUCED INTO THE LOWER LEAGUES, AND DO YOU THINK A SALARY CAP WILL EITHER HELP OR HINDER LOWER LEAGUE CLUBS FINANCIALLY ???

Luke - It’s certainly needed at these levels. We can't afford to have more clubs go out of business like Bury for owners overspending on players when the finances aren't there. I think something needs to be implemented in the Championship also with combined losses of £750m last season proving that business model clearly isn't sustainable either.

Colin - The salary cap will only impact on the Sunderland’s and Ipswich's of this world and they can get round the rules with creative reward packaging.

Gills Anorak - Hopefully it will help stabilise things until Covid is over and then perhaps they can allow some of the bigger teams to flex the budget if they have guaranteed income, otherwise we risk creating to large a financial gap to the Championship clubs.

The Rainham End - The salary cap is an odd one to comment on because it’s early days. It should help the lower budget teams compete better but will have negative impacts if its brought to lower leagues and obviously higher up the pyramid for certain teams who some would like to say brought their way up the divisions such as Salford.

Loonpotter - I think it's a bit early for me to pass judgement on that yet, a lot remains to be seen.

Shane - I think the salary cap is long overdue. Football finances have been a mess for years. I don't think it should hinder clubs and should create a level entertaining league.

RichardS - Everyone knows football salaries have got out of hand so any readjustment is sensible on the face of it. However I'm cynical about 1) How will it be policed? 2) How other Benefits could be disguised as a side perk? We all know that more money needs filtering from the Premier league clubs otherwise there will be more Wigan’s..Don't hold your breath though.

Smithy - I think the wage cap has its benefits and negative points. We are now getting further behind the Championship in terms of money, but on the flip side it has probably helped us at Gills during these tough times so selfishly for our club its probably a good idea. Do I think it's fair that for example Peterborough have the same money to spend as Accrington Stanley. No i don't. I do believe that if you’ve earn't it you can spend it.

BQGillsFan - In my opinion it's going to absolutely ruin League One and Two when they get promoted, especially to the Championship. We'll see clubs on budgets under £2.5m jumping up to teams with no budget restrictions, especially those dropping from the Premier League. Unless it's a cap across the board, lower league teams stand no chance of growing and causing upsets in the higher tiers with these restrictions. It might solve problems short-term, but long-term it's going to completely cripple the bottom two divisions.

Rob - I think it will help. It's ludicrous that someone like Sunderland can have players on £30k a week(!) in our division when that's probably about 7 or 8 of our players. Something needs to change in the financial model of the League. It's interesting how Leagues 1 and 2 have voted for it, but the Championship - full of clubs run at huge losses to chase promotion - have decided not to.

Gills Debate - I think the salary caps will level the playing field in the lower leagues to an extent, the finances of Premier League clubs are clearly a world away from the average league one club, but even within the league itself there are big differences in the resources available. I think therefore that it will probably help clubs like Gills, as it will level the playing field in comparison to the likes of Sunderland, Ipswich, Portsmouth etc. but then on the other hand it may therefore hinder those clubs. Whether setting a blanket figure across the division was the correct way to go about it though I’m not sure, as there is a wide range in attendances that lower league clubs achieve, and so it’s perhaps unfair that they then all have to stick to the same maximum budget.

10. WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON THE FA SCRAPPING FA CUP REPLAYS FOR THE 2020 / 2021 SEASON TO “EASE PRESSURE ON THE FOOTBALL CALENDAR” ARE YOU CONCERNED THAT SCRAPPING FA CUP REPLAY’S FOR THE 2020 / 2021 SEASON CAN EASILY SEE FA CUP REPLAY’S SCRAPPED ON A PERMANENT BASIS ???

Luke - I would hope it’s for one season only. Lower league teams benefit from additional funds from FA Cup replays and I would hope the FA thinks about the 700+ participating teams each year and not just the 20 Premier League Teams who whinge about them.

Colin - Clubs like ours got invaluable cash injections when earning a replay particularly against bigger teams. Replays add to the drama and can see a sustained period of interest and excitement develop. Who can forget the saga between Gills and Everton. We all understand the impact of COVID on the schedules but smaller clubs need help with funding not constraints on it. Bigger clubs generally don’t like replays and yes there might be a push to kill them off permanently.

Gills Anorak - Not ideal and yes I fear they will eventually be phased out.

The Rainham End - Shocking! FA cup should have replays as it’s financially beneficial for lower league and non league teams to get the chance for a replay. If it’s scrapped on permanent basis, then I honestly do not care for the cup. Either scrap the League Cup and keep fa cup replays or keep both.

Loonpotter - I think it's a good idea this season for obvious reasons but I wouldn't like it to be a permanent thing.

Shane - I think it is a good idea for this season. There is a threat some games could be postponed due to covid and even the weather in what is already going to be a busy season. I feel the replays should be reinstated next season. They can be financially rewarding for teams in the lower divisions and non league.

RichardS - As a temporary measure I think its a sensible decision. However only for this season and hopefully it will be continued for the 2021/2022 season to help with revenue.

Smithy -  I 100% believe that we have now lost FA Cup replays for good. And that's terrible. We all looked forward to drawing West Ham at home last season and standing in the Rainham End and we were genuinely talking about the possibility of going to the London Stadium. Imagine how many fans we would have taken and what a great day out that would have been. That excitement now be lost forever.

BQGillsFan - I completely understand why it has been introduced for this season, but yes I fear that it will open the door to it becoming a permanent thing. Unfortunately I've seen over recent seasons that those in control don't care about your club if it isn't called Liverpool, Man City, Man United, Chelsea, Tottenham or Arsenal, so I've resigned myself to the fact that FA Cup replays will be scrapped soon regardless of what lower league teams do to try and stop it.

Rob - It makes sense for this season. The fixture list is congested enough without needing to squeeze in replays. I like them, but I can understand why they have permanently been abolished for the quarter finals and above. I would still rather scrap extra time and go straight to penalties.

Gills Debate - I can understand why FA Cup replays have been scrapped for this season in particular due to the extraordinary situation that we find ourselves in, I think it probably makes sense to ease a bit of pressure on the fixture schedule, and lower league clubs presumably won’t miss out on the same level of extra potential income as they normally would due to restrictions on attendances. I suppose it is a concern that as they’ve scrapped them once they may not bring them back again, but I certainly hope that doesn’t turn out to be the case.

11. GILLINGHAM WILL PLAY TWELVE LEAGUE ONE FIXTURES ON A TUESDAY NIGHT THROUGHOUT THE 2020 / 2021 SEASON COMPARED TO THE FIVE TUESDAY NIGHT LEAGUE ONE FIXTURES THROUGHOUT THE 2019 / 2020 SEASON, DO YOU THINK THE FIXTURE CONGESTION IS GOING TO BE A HUGE PROBLEM FOR GILLINGHAM, GIVEN THAT STEVE EVANS HAS MENTIONED THAT HE WILL BE LINING UP WITH A SMALL FIRST TEAM SQUAD FOR THE 2020 / 2021 SEASON ???

Luke - I'm more concerned about our terrible league record on Tuesday Nights if I'm honest. If we can get that monkey off our back first then we can worry about the number of games on Tuesdays!

Colin - Fitness and injuries will have more impact in a condensed season with lots of night games. Two games in a week will require some squad rotation. We need more forward options. I expect us to make a couple of signings in the next week. The physio’s will be kept busy.

Gills Anorak - No. I think the players like games coming thick and fast rather than training, as long as we are doing well!

The Rainham End - This is new for this season and will soon show if our players are up for the challenge but every team is in the same boat here so I can't see it being a huge problem.

Loonpotter - I think we'll be fine... I think sometimes people make too much of fixture congestion, they are professional young athletes and would probably play 3 times a week if they could.

Shane - I do think Gillingham will struggle at some point during the season with such a small squad. However, it could open the door to some of the youngsters, like it did for Tucker.

RichardS - Short answer is yes. We are still short of players as I write this and a few injuries will compromise our progress significantly. Highly likely with so many fixtures. It's a real concern for me.

Smithy - I do think the congestion with the Tuesday night fixtures could become an issue, certainly if we have injuries/suspensions but for this season at least we have to roll with the punches and if we get through it and get some good results out of these matches then I think it will be a great achievement for the club.

BQGillsFan - It's going to be a problem for everyone. Gillingham won't be the only team with a congested fixture list and given the pandemic situation, it's either this or no football at all. I know which option I prefer.

Rob - Yes, but the other clubs will be in the same boat. We'll have tired players who will need resting (before everyone on Twitter moans about selections) but then so will other clubs.

Gills Debate - Quite possibly yes, especially if we get into the latter stages of the cup competitions. It seems clear that we’re going to be operating with around 20 senior players, and so if a few players start picking up knocks/strains at the same time then we will be down to the bare bones.  I think squad rotation game to game, and perhaps not risking players who may otherwise have been risked, may be more important than ever this season.

12. WHEN FOOTBALL SUPPORTERS ARE ALLOWED BACK INSIDE FOOTBALL STADIUMS TO WATCH THE TEAM THEY SUPPORT PLAY, CAN YOU SEE FOOTBALL CLUBS START TO APPRECIATE THERE SUPPORTERS MORE GIVEN THAT THERE HAS BEEN NO ATMOSPHERE FOR BEHIND CLOSED DOORS MATCHES ???

Luke - I would hope so. We've already seen from the games that were played without fans in the Premier League, Bundesliga and other competitions football isn't the same without an atmosphere. I would hope more incentives are made to get more fans back into stadiums (once covid-friendly) and realise we are the lifeblood of these clubs.

Colin - I think all clubs realise that the professional game is nothing without a live audience. Sadly TV money and online services are likely to become more important at the expense of the real fans.

Gills Anorak - No not really.

The Rainham End - Yes teams will and always should be appreciating the support of the fans. I honestly can't see myself attending games as much as I'm not getting a season ticket because it won't be the same letting in about 3,000 fans separate from each other. It won't be the same for me but I hope by 2021 this will improve.

Loonpotter - Definitely... The need for fans has become ever more evident... Football would die without them and I have struggled to watch football on the TV with no real crowd noise... I just can’t focus on the game.

Shane - I think clubs will realise how much they rely on getting their supporters through the door.

RichardS - Here’s hoping, The reality is people have very short memories and the pressure to increase income will make any recognition short lived in my opinion. Be good for season ticket holders to have some appreciation as it’s they that have saved the club during this crazy times we are facing.

Smithy - I would like to think the club would appreciate us all more yes, especially the season ticket holders that signed up/renewed before the pandemic hit. Football just isn't football without fans after all.

BQGillsFan - Maybe for the first few weeks or months, but overall I imagine things will just go back to the way they were pre-Covid.

Rob - I think our players appreciate the fans already, but there will be a big buzz when fans finally return. Many players have expressed positive comments about the Rainham End - unless they're just saying what people want to hear, which is entirely possible. However, fans may well return spread out and making it difficult to create an atmosphere so things won't quite be the same straight away.

Gills Debate - Yes, I think so, I think you only realise quite how much of a difference supporters make to a game once you’ve watched some that are behind closed doors, and it’s simply not the same without the atmosphere in the ground.

13. GILLINGHAM PLAY AGAINST HULL CITY ON THE OPENING DAY OF THE LEAGUE SEASON AT PRIESTFIELD STADIUM, WHAT WOULD BE YOUR STARTING LINE UP ??? (YOU CAN NAME THE BENCH IF YOU WANT TO NAME THE SUBS), AND WHAT FORMATION WOULD YOU PICK FOR SATURDAY’S MATCH ???

Luke - I'm picking this team on the basis that Jackson isn't suspended for the league game so I would go 4-3-3: Bonham. Jackson, Tucker, Medley, Ogilvie. McKenzie (CDM), O'Keefe, Dempsey. Graham, Akinde, Coyle. Subs: Walsh, Maghoma, Mellis, Willock, Woods, MacDonald, Oliver.

Colin - Bonham Jackson Medley Ogilvie Tucker Maghoma O’Keefe Dempsey MacDonald Akinde Oliver 5-3-2.

Gills Anorak - 4-1-2-1-2 Diamond. Bonham, McKenzie, Ogilvie, Medley, Maghoma, O’Keefe, MacDonald, Dempsey, Graham, Akinde, Coyle.

The Rainham End - I'm a fan of 4-4-2 and dint see why we don't use it more often. My ideal lineup would be ST Oliver,  ST Akinde, LM Graham, RM Coyle, CM Dempsey, CM O'Keefe, LB Ogilvie, CB Medley, CB Tucker, RB Jackson GK Bonham. I'm not 100% sure how his red will effect this. Either he's banned from Tuesday night against Crawley or will be banned against Hull so if that's the case I'd have Tucker LB and Maghoma CB

Loonpotter - GK BONHAM DEF OGILVIE DEF MEDLEY DEF TUCKER DEF MAGHOMA MID MACKENZIE MID GRAHAM MID DEMPSEY MID MACDONALD MID COYLE FWD AKINDE

Shane - I think the team that started against Southend in the league cup. Bonham; Jackson, Maghoma, Medley, Ogilvie; McKenzie, MacDonald, O’Keefe, Dempsey; Oliver, Akinde. SUBS: Walsh, Tucker, Willock, Mellis, Graham , Coyle.

RichardS - I'd go for a standard 4-4-2. Bonham, Jackson, Medley, Tucker,  Ogilvie,  Graham, Dempsey, O'Keefe, Coyle, Oliver and Akinde. Subs: Walsh, Mellis, MacDonald, McKenzie, Maghoma and Hanlon ( assuming he stays but unlikely) Woods.

Smithy - Bonham McKenzie Medley Maghoma Ogilvie Dempsey Graham Mellis Coyle Oliver Akinde

BQGillsFan - Bonham, Jackson, Tucker, Medley, Ogilvie, O'Keefe, Dempsey, MacDonald, Graham, Coyle, Oliver. Go with a 4-3-3 formation, could start with either Akinde or Oliver really, depending on who Evans sees as his first choice striker this season.

Rob - Bonham; Tucker, McKenzie, Medley, Ogilvie; Dempsey, O'Keefe, Mellis; Graham, Coyle, Akinde.

Gills Debate - (4-3-3) – Bonham, McKenzie, Tucker, Medley, Ogilvie, O’Keefe, Dempsey, Mellis, Graham, Oliver, Coyle. Subs: Walsh, Maghoma, Robertson, Willock, MacDonald, Woods, Akinde.

14. WHERE DO YOU THINK GILLINGHAM WILL FINISH IN LEAGUE ONE FOR THE 2020 / 2021 SEASON ???

Luke - It would be wrong of me to predict anything else really. I'm going to say a top 24 finish.

Colin - I am expecting us to struggle unless we do sign a couple of strikers. If we don’t 18th if we do 12th.

Gills Anorak - 9th.

The Rainham End - 1st, realistically let's say 8th.

Loonpotter - Between 6th and 8th

Shane - Heart says Gills could aim for 6th. Head says 8th-13th.

RichardS - The so called "Experts" have predicted us to finish anything from 6th - 22nd so That's really helpful Lol.. I'll plump for 9th and a marginal improvement on last season. Be lovely to make the play offs though.

Smithy - 8-10th I think will be where we finish, but I think to do that we need to start quite strong.

BQGillsFan - I'm going to whisper it very quietly so maybe the jinx gods don't hear me......... play-offs.

Rob - Hopefully, top 10 again. Dare I say playoffs?

Gills Debate - I’ll go for 8th.

15. AND FINALLY, IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE YOU WISH TO ADD (EXAMPLE: IS THERE SOMETHING I HAVE NOT COVERED IN THE FOURTEEN QUESTIONS ASKED ABOVE YOU WANT TO EXPAND UPON) ???

Luke - God I hope they've improved the paella already.

Colin - It is going to be a strange season for everyone. I hope it’s not too dispiriting and that we can get the fans back in and keep us there.

Gills Anorak - Nothing To Add.

The Rainham End - Nothing To Add.

Loonpotter - I just want to say what a great rebuild in difficult circumstances Steve Evans and Paul Scally have done.. I'm very excited for the new season and very optimistic..

Shane - Nothing To Add.

RichardS - Hopefully we can get back to watching our team with the feel good factor being there brings. Its horrible watching on TV. Thanks again for the inclusion Lee and let's hope for a cracker of a season one and all. Up the Gills…

Smithy - Nothing To Add.

BQGillsFan - Since these questions were given out, Hanlan's departure has been confirmed and I really don't know how I feel about it. Certainly worked his socks off whenever he played and is a very different attacking option to what we have in Akinde and Oliver. But he also was awful at burying his many, many chances throughout the year and his conduct over the summer seems to have soiled a lot of fans' opinion on the young lad. I personally would have liked to see him stay, but ultimately his departure seems to be the best thing for all parties.

Rob - Nothing To Add.

Gills Debate -  Nothing To Add.

Once again, thank you to everyone for participating in this blog, and if anyone who is reading this who wishes to participate in The Gillingham Supporters Blog throughout The 2020 / 2021 Season, then feel free to send me a message, and your more than welcome to participate in The Gillingham Supporters Blog, Hopefully, Gillingham can get off to the perfect start by picking up all three points against Hull City in the opening League One match of the season - COME ON THE GILLS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[fan-of-mulligan]

GILLINGHAM SUPPORTERS REPORT 2019 / 2020 SEASON - PART ONE

At the start of the season, I asked Gillingham Supporters for there thoughts and opinions on Gillingham’s Transfer Activity, Which Young Players Can You See Breaking Into Gillingham’s First Team, Where Do You Think Gillingham Will Finish In League One This Season, And Questions About Gillingham’s Home Form, If you want to check out that blog in full, then here is a link to that blog - https://fan-of-mulligan.tumblr.com/post/186739483142/fom-blog-gillingham-supporters-season-preview-for

This blog is a follow up blog to the blog that every Gillingham Supporter participated in before the start of the season, and that was the first blog of a four part feature, this blog looks at how Gillingham have performed after Fifteen League Games, The Third Part will be after Thirty League Games, and the final part will be A End Of Season Review Blog, Answering these questions are the following Gillingham Supporters,,,,, Rob, Gills Anorak, Lee, Louis, Ben, Luke, RichardS, Steve, and Lewis.

I want to thank everyone who has participated in the latest Gillingham Supporters Blog, as well as thank those who participated in The Previous Gillingham Supporters Blogs throughout The 2018 / 2019 Season, It is because the involvement of everyone who has participated in the previous five blogs which made these blogs so successful, so once again, thank you, Now on to the questions and answers……….

1. AT PRIESTFIELD STADIUM, GILLINGHAM HAVE WON THREE, DRAWN ONE AND LOST THREE OF OUR OPENING SEVEN LEAGUE ONE HOME FIXTURES, WITH THE GILLS SCORING FOURTEEN AND CONCEDING EIGHT IN THESE SEVEN HOME MATCHES THIS SEASON, HOW WOULD YOU RATE GILLINGHAM’S HOME FORM SO FAR THIS SEASON ???, AND WHAT DO YOU THINK GILLINGHAM NEED TO DO TO BETTER OUR CURRENT FORM OVER THE NEXT SEVEN HOME LEAGUE GAMES ???

Rob - It's okay, I suppose. Our record isn't that much better than in previous seasons despite replacing most of the team. I think the team is still gelling though and we may see an upturn once some players (Cisse, Willock) return to fitness.

Gills Anorak - Home form is better than the last couple of seasons. I think they need to continue to play attacking football in the hope attendances will improve.

Lee - Our form at home hasn’t been great at all as well as our away form which has been patchy in parts to say the very least. To improve I think the squad needs a couple of changes. Mandron has looked effective as an Aerial threat and I think with a better front 3 of Hanlan Charles-Cook and Mandron we could be stronger away from home and at home. Our defence has lacked when we haven’t had Fuller and you can see we’ve missed him massively and hopefully he is part of the squad again soon!

Louis - I think the Gills home form has been somewhat positive but also frustrating. As expected when a lot of players are brought in then there will need to be time for the team to shape itself but I do believe we should be picking up more points at home. We started off scoring goals which is always good to see and from a mix of players too, but concentration levels has put us in trouble on a number of occasions and wiped out all the hard work the players had put in. The improvement needed is more concentration at the back and awareness of opposing players which I believe has already started to be implemented in the last 2-3 games. I also feel we need a way to get our strikers involved in the game more and not just hoofing the ball up field when other tactics have not been working.

Ben - I would like to see the Gills go for the kill in more home games, especially if we go in front.

Luke - Score more than we concede usually secures you all three points so that's what we need to do.

RichardS - Well it's better than last year. Ultimately it's all about quality. We have a reasonable team of League 1 players. For our home form to improve someone has to step up and grab games by the scruff of the neck. Stuart O'Keefe and Mark Byrne possibly although Mark has done well and tried. We are to reliant on the long ball and kick and hope and need to vary the play more. Until then it's a case of same old.

Steve - The current home form isn’t great. I’d say below average. To improve I’d start Lee and Pringle. They’re always on the bench and they’re good, creative players. I don’t think they’ve ever started a game together and, at home, we should be on the front foot.

Lewis -  I certainly feel more confident when we’re at home. We’ve been pretty decent in games we’ve got nothing from, such as Ipswich and Peterborough, but that’s still not good enough. In general we lack firepower going forward, so, when you’re expected to control games at home, it’s hard to do that. We need attacking players like Oliver Lee and Ben Pringle to deliver - if they’re given the chance, of course.

2. GILLINGHAM PICKED UP THERE FIRST AWAY WIN OF THE SEASON AGAINST ACCRINGTON STANLEY AT THE WEEKEND, AND GILLINGHAM’S AWAY FORM THIS SEASON IS AS FOLLOWS,,, WON ONE, DRAWN FIVE, LOST TWO, SCORING SIX AND CONCEDING NINE, HOW WOULD YOU RATE GILLINGHAM’S AWAY FORM OVER THE OPENING EIGHT AWAY MATCHES THIS SEASON, AND ALSO, DO YOU THINK SATURDAY’S WIN AGAINST ACCRINGTON STANLEY WILL GIVE THE PLAYERS A PSYCHOLOGICAL BOOST GOING INTO UP AND COMING AWAY MATCHES ???

Rob - You know more than most about the effects of not winning away for over a season, so it's important we got that vital first win. I guess it's not important where the wins come from, although the Chairman and home fans would prefer the majority to be in ME7. Win most at home, draw most away and we'll be fine.

Gills Anorak - Away form isn’t quite as good as last year but the performance have generally been good, and yes I’m sure beating Accrington will be a big boost.

Lee - I was there at Accrington and I was very pleased with the performance from the boys and I think it really was a game of two halves with Charles-Cook scoring a great goal and Jack Bonham  making some amazing saves to keep the 3 points coming back to Kent. You could really see what it meant to the players and fans alike and was well worth waking up at 5am for! Going into our next away games at the end of this year not one of them look like easy games that 3 points are guaranteed in but I think if we can gain momentum from last week hopefully our away form can improve. I think it would be nice for the fans who do the miles season in season out.

Louis - Gillingham’s away form has always been hit or miss (more miss then hit) which makes it tricky to say that only one away win so far is either good or bad. Looking at it in terms of points (8 points) makes our form look more reasonable considering we had been playing a tighter game away and only scoring 6 goals. I feel our away form is on point so far, but yes the win against Accrington should give the team a boost and give them that little bit of extra positive energy to try and improve for the next away fixture.

Ben - Overall, I think we've been quite dull away from home! But we're harder to beat now than we were in the past.

Luke - Not great, seems to be Steve Lovell is the only one who mastered us playing well away in recent years. Providing we pick up our home form that's what I'm more concerned about as that's where you see the team more.

RichardS - On the whole I don't think we have done to badly away from home. It seems to suit us and we have played some decent sides. If we can maintain the current level of form that would be tolerable. As above it's the home form that needs to improve for me.

Steve - It’s not great. We travel up and down the country spending loads of money and they often perform really badly. Good performance at Accrington because apparently they were all over us. That makes it a good away win! I’m not sure it’ll help. It’ll probably go back to normal, and Saturday’s game against Rotherham shows they can’t have taken too much confidence.

Lewis - It’s not been brilliant, as the stats say! The Coventry and Oxford games, in particular, were tragic. You’d hope the Accrington win will give the side a boost because the burden is, now, off their shoulders in regards to getting that first away win. We’ll see soon!

3. GILLINGHAM HAVE BEEN VERY ACTIVE IN THE SUMMER TRANSFER WINDOW (SIGNING JACK BONHAM, LEE HODSON, ALFIE JONES, CONNOR OGILVIE, TOM O’CONNOR, STUART O’KEEFE, OUSSEYNOU CISSE, MATTY WILLOCK, BEN PRINGLE, OLLY LEE, MARK MARSHALL, ALEX JAKUBIAK, MIKAEL NDJOLI AND MIKAEL MANDRON) - WHO DO YOU THINK HAS BEEN GILLINGHAM’S BEST SIGNING THIS SEASON AND WHY ???

Rob - It's difficult to choose between Bonham and Jones. Jones arrived as a centre back but looks far more suited to a holding midfield role and has put in some impressive performances. As for Bonham, I didn't know much about him when he arrived but I think he's been one of our best players. A good, confident, consistent, goalkeeper makes the world of difference to a defence and I believe we have one in Bonham. If only he slapped the badge a bit then he'd be as loved as Nelson.

Gills Anorak - Jack Bonham. He edges it over Alfie Jones because he is a permanent signing so excellent business for the club. I rate him higher than Holy already.

Lee - So far I would have to say Connor Ogilvie has really found his feet at the club and really has earn’t his place in the squad. When he first arrived a couple seasons ago from Tottenham’s youth set up I wasn’t very keen on him and he was shaky at the start but has been a big part of our team so far and hopefully it can continue as i think his potential could be big later on in his career.

Louis - Even though Evans had signed Ogilvie on a permanent basis, I do not really see him as a new signing due to him being on loan with us for the past two seasons so I will have to say Jack Bonham. I consider Bonham to be an all round goalkeeper who our defenders can trust and also an improvement from Holy that gives more resilience to our defence. I feel slightly less nervous with Bonham in goal as we know what we will be getting from him in majority of games. He has already shown us the type of saves he can make, which has kept us in many games. I can see more to come from him this season. I also think Alfie Jones has done well in his new midfield role and given us something that had been missing from the team in the past few seasons.

Ben - I have been very impressed with Tom O'Connor and I would have to say Bonham is the best signing!

Luke - Jack Bonham. Been an excellent replacement for Holy and looks to be getting better and better. Won't be too long before the Ireland scouts start looking at him in my opinion.

RichardS - At this moment in time Jack Bonham. Had big boots to fill to replace Tomas Holy but looks really good and growing in confidence. Today's penalty save will have helped. Tom O'Connor and Alfie Jones have also settled well. Jakubiak has done well. Olly Lee has potential. Matty Willock we will have to see. Who knows.

Steve - I think it’s got to be Bonham. Lots of them haven’t played for a number of reasons. Bonham has won us a few games like at Accrington. He’s made a couple of mistakes but he’s been good.

Lewis -  I’m still hopeful for a few that haven’t, necessarily, delivered, yet, but I think the best has been Alfie Jones. I’m pretty sure he was bought in to play centre-half, but he’s been incredible in midfield! He breaks up play and protects the defence so well, and has plenty of passion. I’ve no doubts he’ll go on to play in the Premier League!

4. THE LIKES OF JOSH REES, DEAN PARRETT, GABRIEL ZAKUANI, CALLUM REILLY, MIQUEL SCARLETT, DARREN OLDAKER, ELLIOTT LIST AND BRADLEY STEVENSON ALL LEFT GILLINGHAM FOOTBALL CLUB BEFORE THE TRANSFER WINDOW CLOSED AT THE END OF AUGUST, WHICH PLAYERS ON THIS LIST ARE YOU MOST SURPRISED ABOUT BEING ALLOWED TO MOVE ON FROM THE GILLS ???

Rob - Callum Reilly was a surprise as he had played the majority of games in pre-season and seemed the type of player Evans would want. It's a shame List left as well and I still believe Oldaker will reach his potential.

Gills Anorak - None of them really. Id imagine DEAN PARRETT, GABRIEL ZAKUANI, CALLUM REILLY were too expensive for what they contributed and JOSH REES, MIQUEL SCARLETT, DARREN OLDAKER, ELLIOTT LIST AND BRADLEY STEVENSON we’re not deemed good enough for League 1.

Lee - Like a few I would have to say Elliot List would of had to be the most surprising and equally gutting as he really played a massive part in the season last season scoring some very key goals and assisting many also but who could forget his goal against premier league Cardiff. I wish him all the best at Stevenage and later on in his career wherever it may take him.

Louis - I was surprised to see Callum Reilly go. When he was played in his preferred position he gave us that extra creativity in midfield which gave him the ability to turn nothing into something ( Billy Bingham also had this ability but sadly consistent injury's plagued his time at the club). Evans had brought in a lot of midfielders into the team so I can see why he was allowed to go.

Ben - I was most surprised at List leaving! He always offered something different off the bench! And could have been effective this season.

Luke - I could probably make a case for all of those names if I wanted to. Oldaker and List are the ones most disappointing as the potential is there, Evans just needed to mould them into more complete players. Right Back has been bit of a problem area and I don't think we appropriately replaced Luke O’Neill.

RichardS - I would have kept Gabriel Zakuani and Callum Reilly. Still think they would have something to offer if nothing else as back up. However I accept you have to limit squad numbers and watch the payroll so there is a further debate there.

Steve - Zakuani was a good defender. I’m surprised he went. I know he was injured but I’m surprised he left. He’s not on the list but I’d say O’Neill, too. I quite like Stevenson as well. I know he was young but he was good and I liked him. I love List as well!

Lewis - A few things weirded me out about some of the departures. One thing was the players that left having signed new deals in summer (Scarlett, Stevenson). Evans and Raynor agreed they’d let Mark Patterson sort out the deals, and said they trusted him, but, then, some of those players left. Another thing was that ‘squad’ players were allowed to leave. Zakuani and List were two players that departed because they couldn’t be guaranteed football, but we need a squad to compete!

5. WHO DO YOU THINK HAS BEEN GILLINGHAM’S MOST IMPROVED PLAYER THIS SEASON ???

Rob - Most improved player is probably Tucker. He's ahead of a new signing at right back, despite being a centre back by trade, and looks perfectly comfortable in either position.

Gills Anorak - Connor Ogilvie.

Lee - This is very hard to answer really as it has been a pretty big renovation to the team since Evans Joined in May but overall I think like I said earlier Connor Ogilvie has really improved and is an asset to our defence.

Louis - Conner Ogilvie. Playing in the centre has given him a new lease of life. He has been solid and commanding at the back but also helped improve his attacking play which he has shown on a number of occasions this season. The role has given him lots more confidence and this has shown greatly in his game.

Ben - I have been impressed with Connor Ogilvie for the last season and a half! He's come on leaps and bounds.

Luke - Jack Tucker, actually getting game time and the opportunity to shine and long may it continue.

RichardS - I said this last season and so far have been proved right. Bar today ( not his best  game) Jack Tucker has impressed. Young hungry and will only improve with experience. Jack Bonham has also done well as mentioned above.

Steve - I’d like to say Byrne. He gives 110% every game and runs everywhere. He seems dedicated. You look at some others and just think, what the hell?! Fuller has always been good but with O’Neill gone he’s stepped up, too.

Lewis - Apart from Saturday’s game against Rotherham, Connor Ogilvie has really impressed me. He’s benefitted from a solid run at centre-half, and looks at home, there. I’d say he’s been in our top three players this year.

6. AND WHO DO YOU THINK HAS BEEN GILLINGHAM’S MOST DISAPPOINTING PLAYER THIS SEASON ???

Rob - Most disappointing has to be Willock as he hasn't actually played yet. Once he gets some games, I'm sure that will change.

Gills Anorak - Lee Hodgson. Cisse less so as I didn’t think he would be anymore than a squad player.

Lee - I would have to say I have been annoyed so far with Stuart O’Keefe as he is a very short tempered player and isn’t really involved a lot when he’s played this season. It’s a shame really considering the clubs he had been at previous to joining us.

Louis - There has been a few players who have not been involved in the team much that I thought would of been. Some mainly due to injury like Willock but the most disappointing for me would have to be Cisse. In the games he had played he looked placid, boring and did not show much fight in his game. I was able to see the team for a while during the build up of the game against Bolton and Cissie was the only player who did not look bothered about being part of the team. My assumption is that he may have an attitude problem but that is only my perspective in what I have seen and could well be not the case.

Ben - Most disappointing player for me, would have to be Mark Marshall (whom, i've seen play on a few occasions) and maybe Matty Willock, although he hasn't played much.

Luke - Matty Willock. Was bigged an awful lot during the summer and we've seen him play 45 minutes of mediocre football. Lee Hodson also falls into a disappointing signing in my opinion, not enough emphasis on defending from a player who is meant to be a defender.

RichardS - Mikael Mandron. BUT that's so far and I'm not one to criticise players unjustifiably as I think the potential is there but it not shown through yet.

Steve - I actually think O’Connor. He has his good moments, but sometimes he gets the ball and just can’t pass.

Lewis - I don’t think he’s been tragic, but Lee Hodson has disappointed me a bit. Everyone assumed he was bought in to replace Luke O’Neill, but he’s, somehow, third choice right-back, now. He hasn’t been great when he’s featured, but, as I mentioned in my previous answer, I have hope players like Lee will come good.

7. GILLINGHAM HAVE GOT THE FOLLOWING MATCHES COMING UP IN NOVEMBER, ROTHERHAM UNITED, AND LINCOLN CITY AT HOME AND AFC WIMBLEDON AWAY IN LEAGUE ONE, AS WELL AS CUP MATCHES AGAINST SUNDERLAND AND TOTTENHAM’S U21’S IN THE FA CUP AND FOOTBALL LEAGUE TROPHY RESPECTIVELY, IDEALLY, WE LIKE TO SEE GILLINGHAM WIN ALL FIVE MATCHES, BUT WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO SEE GILLINGHAM ACHIEVE FROM THESE FIVE MATCHES ???

Rob - We should be winning at least one of the home games and probably away at Wimbledon too. I can't see us getting anything from Sunderland in the cup and I don't care about the EFL Trophy.

Gills Anorak - Minimum 5 points in the league. 7 points would be good. A decent performance v Sunderland and v Spurs I’ve no interest.

Lee - Ideally as you mentioned a win in all would be brilliant but is something that will be very difficult to gain. Starting off with Saturday’s visitors Rotherham they’ve had a great start to the season but seem to give away a lot of late second half goals. I think it will be a tough game and will be one id happily take a draw in. Sunderland in the cup will be hard and a replay down here would be nice to get but if I’m honest I can’t see it happening. As for Lincoln the following week I think we will get 3 points. The work the Cowley brothers did to that club was amazing and you can see how horrible it was for the fans to see the pair leave. Mike Appleton hasn’t found his feet yet and it’s unlikely he will so I think if we can we should take advantage of that and push for 3 points as well as the game the week after at AFC Wimbledon which I will be attending and hope we can do as well as we did there under Lovell last season. I personally couldn’t care less about the cup game against spurs u21 as we don’t have nothing to play for and the attendance won’t be great for a game in the middle of November!

Louis - Rotherham’s away form has been good recently which includes a 0-2 win against Ipswich so they will give us a bit of a challenge more than others may think. They have been inconsistent but a draw against them would not be the end of the world. Lincoln seem to be suffering since the loss of their talented manager despite their impressive win against an under performing Sunderland team at the beginning of October. That win is the only one they have had in the last 11 games in all competitions. Out of the other 10 games only two of them resulted in draws. I would be very disappointed if we could not capitalise on this poor run of form so 3 points is what I would be hoping for. AFC Wimbledon have been picking up a little bit of form of late with 4 wins in 5 in all competitions in October, with their recent loss only being on the 22nd Oct against Burton. Three of those wins have been at home so we could be playing them at the wrong time especially if they continue their good home form. I would of wanted 3 points from this game but as recent results have shown then a draw could be a good point gained.

I have no interest in Gillingham’s game against Tottenham’s U21's but it would be a good chance to play our less regular players alongside some of our promising young talent. This is a type of game where players currently not getting into the first team can show Steve Evans what they can really do. The result does not matter in this game. Sunderland. When this draw was made, many of our supporters had already given up hope of us having a decent cup run this season. When watching the draw even I had my doubts against a very daunting opposition for a first round game, but it is not all doom and gloom. Sunderland have lost games and dropped points against many teams this season including  a 1-1 draw against Bolton and a 2-0 loss against Lincoln so there is hope for us yet. Sunderland has only won once in their previous 4 league games and seems to be struggling to find themselves and live up to their supporters expectations. The pressure of promotion on them this season is showing, so a cup upset is very much on the cards and i can envisage Gillingham doing this.

Ben - Ideally i'd take 7 points from the next 9, and a win in the cup at Sunderland & then a chance to play some youngsters against Spurs.

Luke - Lincoln and Wimbledon are winnable and I would be expect 6 points from those games. Rotherham will be very difficult to play and I will be happy with a point from that game. Spurs game I couldn't care less about and I don't see us making round 2 of the FA Cup.

RichardS - Win all 5 ! Ok seriously 4 points and a cup win would leave me content. We must win either the Lincoln or Wimbledon games for me and ideally remain unbeaten in those 2 fixtures. Footballers play to many games so whilst others are a feel good factor for cup runs and help financially, league games are bread and butter.

Steve - You want to see us beat Sunderland because it’s a cup game and we want to get to the next round. That’s where we get the money from! Would definitely be nice to see maximum points from the rest of them!

Lewis - Everyone loves a cup run, so it would be nice to have one of them in the FA Cup! In the Spurs game, I’d like to see some fringe players perform. They haven’t done it, yet, in these sort of games, and we need them to. In terms of the league, I think scoring goals is starting to become a problem. Early in the season I didn’t think we missed Tom Eaves, but, at the minute, it’s started to show that we are.

8. SINCE GILLINGHAM WERE PROMOTED AS LEAGUE TWO CHAMPIONS IN THE 2012 / 2013 SEASON, GILLINGHAM HAVE FINISHED IN SEVENTEENTH, TWELFTH, NINTH, TWENTIETH, SEVENTEENTH AND THIRTEENTH POSITION’S IN LEAGUE ONE, AND FOR THE VAST MAJORITY OF THE LAST SIX SEASON’S HAVE SEEN GILLINGHAM INVOLVED IN A BATTLE TO AVOID RELEGATION, WHY DO YOU THINK THIS IS THE CASE, AND WHAT DO YOU THINK NEEDS TO CHANGE FOR GILLINGHAM TO BE CHALLENGING TOWARDS THE TOP END OF THE LEAGUE ONE TABLE ???

Rob - Well, the obvious one is the man upstairs. We can't spend any more money, so we can't really get any better players in. That said, I think we might end up mid-table this season, but no higher.

Gills Anorak - A mixture of things. Players and Managers who were not good enough or when we had a couple of top players this wasn’t enough to build a promotion winning side. We need investment but not at the expense of being the next Bury.

Lee - I think we’ve just lacked a lot compared to other clubs and haven’t had the best financial improvements and income of our chairman who I won’t get carried away about. Our fate will soon be league 2 football again and it’s a shame because this level of football is great for the club but we just never look to battle for a spot in the championship and always seem to settle for a bottom half finish and is getting boring now.

Louis - I do not think the team has evolved enough since getting back into league one and the quality of players has stagnated. The Gills seemed to had been stuck in a rut and finishing 13th last season did not reflect upon a poor season we had. The team needed a brand new shape and that is why I believe Scally appointed Evens. He was not my first choice but can see what he is trying to do and so far it seems to be working but there is still more improvement needed. If we are to challenge at the top end of the table then we do need to find a way to give our strikers plenty more attacking opportunity.

Ben - Maybe the idea of recruitment, we've got some good players, but we need to add to the squad we have, so maybe investment too.

Luke - There's only one answer to that and it's money. The business model that the club is run under is not to lose money which makes perfect business sense, however as we don't make enough revenue there isn't enough profit to reinvest into the playing squad. External investment is seriously needed if we want to return to the championship any time soon but I just stress, it can't be at the detriment to the club losing money.

RichardS - Simple. More money. Sorry but the game has changed and it's now virtually impossible to make significant progress without it. We may strike lucky occasionally but that's more luck than judgement. Otherwise we will find our level which is about where we are now I'm afraid. If we can get new investors, a new stadium then we may move forward.

Steve - Win more matches! Scally should put his hand in his pocket, especially this January, maybe switch it up a bit. And start the best players!

Lewis - Most people will say investment. Sure, it’s hard to get good results consistently when there’s not loads of money out there, but it’s possible to do well with good coaching alone. I hope Evans and Raynor can continue to help the squad, and then we should move up the league.

9. IF YOU CAN SIGN THREE PLAYERS FROM ANY TEAM(S) IN LEAGUE ONE TO IMPROVE GILLINGHAM’S SQUAD, WHICH THREE PLAYERS WILL YOU SIGN AND WHY ???

Rob - That's a tough one. I'm not sure on names, but I think we are missing a deadly finisher up top (someone like Deon Burton when he was with us) and a backup left back. Could do with maybe a right back, as a push.

Gills Anorak - Kane Vincent-Young because he’s going to be in the Premier League in the next couple of years. Kayden Jackson and Tariqe Fosu as we need goals.

Lee - Player One - Ivan Toney from Peterborough Reason - An all round great player who is always involved in the goals for the posh and the times I’ve been to Peterborough I’ve been shocked and left thinking of how he isn’t playing at a high level and I think wherever he went he would be an asset and would be great to see him play at ME7 Player Two - Joe Jacobson from Wycombe  Reason - what a player he is I really like the way he plays and he reminds me of Barry Fuller and in defence together would be a great addition  Player Three - John Akinde from Lincoln  Reason - He impressed me at Barnet and could be what we need going forward

Louis - The first player I would sign would be Jonson Clarke-Harris (Bristal Rovers). He is a proven goal scorer and causes defenders problems throughout the league. At the age of 25 he could improve more. I really do rate him and he would improve our attacking line up immensely. The second would be Cameron Brannagan (Oxford). This player is young at 23 and has a very good passing success rate as well as creating a lot of goal scoring opportunity for his team. He has a very good assist rate and would be someone who could feed the decent balls we need to our strikers in a game. Once more he can dribble the ball very well which is something our team has been lacking for many years. The third would be Luke Chambers (Ipswich). He has been solid at the back for Ipswich with a high number of blocks and clearances which has saved his team points over a number of games this seasons. Having another player like this in our squad would no doubt boost confidence in the team as a whole.

Ben - James Norwood, from Ipswich, for the simple reason I rate him and he'd get us goals! Marcus Maddison as a creative midfielder! And Lynden Gooch, as he's a good midfielder and is quite creative.

Luke - Marcus Maddison & Ivan Toney from Posh. Aiden McGeady from Sunderland - They're all better than what we currently have.

RichardS - Well this really does relate to my point above. But Jonson Clarke Harris of Bristol Rovers, Both Mo Eisa and Marcus Maddison of Peterborough. If I can have a 4th then Paddy Madden of Fleetwood. Why? We are desperately in need of goal scorers..Simple.

Steve - We need a striker, so we should raid Peterborough. Eisa or Toney would be lovely. In fact, take them both! Left back as well - Josh Ruffels from Oxford would be nice.

Lewis - I’m going to think tactically, here. We need a striker, so I’m going to chose James Norwood from Ipswich. I think we need to strengthen at full-back, so I’m going to take Chris Cadden from Oxford. I’d rather have a left-back, but Cadden is a talent, so Fuller can just shuffle to the left, again. Finally, I’m going to get a wide player in, and I’d be silly not to go with Marcus Maddison. He’s probably the best player in the league.

10. WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS AND OPINIONS ON STEVE EVANS BEING APPOINTED AS GILLINGHAM MANAGER ???

Rob - I don't like the man for a wide variety of reasons. I want the club and the players to do well. I cheer on the players, not the manager.

Gills Anorak - Wasn’t keen on him being appointed but if he helps to become a better team and doesn’t embarrass the club in the process then it’s fine.

Lee - I like Steve he is passionate and likes his point being put across. He’s assistant Paul Raynor is childish and nearly got hit at half time by the Accrington Manager Saturday as he didn’t shut up going into the tunnel.

Louis - I was one of many who did not want him to get the job. Once appointed (like any other manager) I will support him and see what he can do. I can see positives in the team and you can see how he wants to change the setup of our game. I think it is a working progress and something that will be more gradual then instant which many others were hoping for. There is improvement in the quality of the squad and he has more then just a plan A under his belt. Evans is also not afraid to try new things but one worry of mine is that he could still get himself in some trouble which would reflect against the club badly and ruin the progress he has already started to build. I am happy with what he has done so far but not in a position for signing his name in the stands.

Ben - I quite liked the appointment, it's a new type of appointment as we've had club legends and the Edinburgh esq with success down the pyramid! But Evans is proven in LG 1.

Luke - Never wanted Evans in charge and his current record hasn't done wonders to try and change my mind. Will give him until Christmas now as we aren't quite in immediate danger but I don't personally think we've improved from the side that was under the stewardship of Steve Lovell last season.

RichardS - I have always said if he gets results then fine. It's a results driven business with little sentiment. If we climb the league then fine. However if results are not forthcoming then he will be accountable like any other manager.

Steve - It’s not been as good as I thought it would be. At the Q&A it was positive and everyone was excited, but it just hasn’t happened. Disappointed right now.

Lewis - I think I said before that I wasn’t happy with it at the time, but I settled on the idea more as time went on. I just fear that it’s not going to end pretty - I feel like I’m just waiting for the time to come where it all comes crashing down. I hope I’m wrong!

11. WHAT WAS THE FIRST GILLINGHAM GAME YOU WENT TO, AND WHAT WAS THE SCORE ???

Rob - Gills Vs Wycombe in 1997. Finished 1-0 to Gills.

Gills Anorak - v Brighton 1993. We won.

Lee - Gillingham v Burton Albion Saturday 20th October 2012 4-1 win Great game and one that left me addicted to crazily enough come back lol!

Louis - First Gills game was against Colchester in Nov 1989. I do not remember much of the game except it was cold. After doing a bit of research the score finished 3-3.

Ben - Gills Vs Stockport 3-1 in December 2009.

Luke - Gillingham Vs Leeds United FA Cup 4th Round on January 28th 2003. Finished 1-1. Alan Smith scored a free kick for Leeds before Mark Viduka got sent off for an elbow on Andy Hessenthaler. Big Mama Sidibe got us an equaliser. Great result against a side full of Premier League greats.

RichardS - Very vague in the memory but early 1980's and finished 1-1. Lincoln City I think.

Steve - It was actually the Manchester City game at Wembley in the 1999 play-off final. I’d always followed Gillingham, but no one else had any interest. A friend of mine was going to Wembley and invited me, and I haven’t looked back. Everyone knows how the game went!

Lewis - My first Gillingham game was Gillingham v Port Vale at Priestfield on 08/12/07; I was eight years old. We went 1-0 up thanks to Chris Dickson, but Vale came back and won 2-1. Start as you mean to go on, I guess! I sat in the Town End, too, and it hammered it down!

12. BRANDON HANLAN, MIKAEL NDJOLI, ALEX JAKUBIAK AND MIKAEL MANDRON HAVE SCORED TWELVE GOALS BETWEEN THE FOUR OF THEM THIS SEASON, HOW DO ALL FOUR STRIKERS IMPROVE THERE GOALSCORING FORM, AND DO YOU THINK ALL FOUR PLAYERS MENTIONED ABOVE GET MANY OPPORTUNITIES PER GAME TO STICK THE BALL INTO THE BACK OF THE NET ???

Rob - All, aside from Mandron, appear to be best suited to a second-striker role, coming in from inside forward positions to feed off a main target man. Unfortunately, Mandron hasn't quite fulfilled that role yet. The others don't look prolific but I think they may all have a run of goals at some point this season. When we play long balls, all except Mandron struggle to compete.

Gills Anorak - They have plenty of chances but I don’t think any of them are natural goal scorers at the moment or consistent enough as a goal scoring striker.

Lee - I think they’ve all been great and I would really like to see them start as a front 4 and strive as a group if possible.

Louis - All four strikers have different attributes then one another. Hanlan has some good work ethic, Mandron can finish a ball well one on one. Ndjoli can cause opposing defenders to make mistakes with his trickery and Jakubiak can take players on and put the ball into the box. I think all four needs to have a better supply but each player likes to receive the ball in different ways which makes it complicated. Also the consistent change of strikers dose not help the matter. Example: So if you change the way midfielders try to assist the strikers but then change the strikers in which the new system dose not suite them, then we are stuck with the same problem.

Hanlan needs to stay on his feet more when challenged for the ball. There has been many a occasion where if he easily stood his ground then he would of been through with a dangerous attacking chance. He has shown he can do this but mainly because he did not start the game and just came of the bench or when we conceded a goal and then the urgency to get a goal back kicks in. Mandron needs to be able to hold onto the ball better. Yes he can finish well but it is no good if he cant not keep hold of the ball. Ndjoli is clearly a talented player when he wants to be but can get lost in games which makes him ineffective at times, Jakubiak is our biggest threat in front of goal but he does get used in different ways and sometimes a game does not suit him. He also needs to use his team mates a bit more as sometimes he does try and do it on his own a little too much.

Ben - Ndjoli and Hanlan for me get enough chances, to get goals! They all just need to be more clinical.

Luke - Well they all need to hit the net more than they currently are. Brandon probably creates the most chances for himself but he needs help and needs to perhaps play alongside Mandron regularly to get the best out of him. Jakubiak has a knack of getting in the right places but overcomplicates things too much imo. Ndjoli needs to focus on the game more but has plenty of ability. Penalties aren't his strong point however.

RichardS - They all have ability. Ndjoli has real potential but is what I can only describe as a loose cannon. Hanlan can be superb on his day. I think they could create more but frankly have as many opportunities as the team provides them. In reality probably not enough.

Steve - They don’t get much service, because I don’t think we play our most creative players, Lee and Pringle. That would be a good start to get more goals!

Lewis - Hanlan’s finishing isn’t great, but, apart from that, he’s a good player. Jakubiak has his back to goal far too often for my liking, and the other two just seen a bit lightweight! That being said, they don’t get enough opportunities, no, because we don’t create much. Hopefully that changes soon!

13. IN THE WORLD CUP, NATIONAL TEAMS GET TO NAME TWENTY THREE PLAYERS IN THERE SQUAD, SO IF YOU WERE TO NAME YOUR TWENTY THREE MAN SQUAD FOR GILLINGHAM DURING THE TIME YOU HAVE WATCHED GILLINGHAM PLAY, WHICH PLAYERS WOULD YOU PICK IN YOUR SQUAD AND WHY ??? (YOU MUST INCLUDE THREE GOALKEEPERS)

Rob - 1 Banks, 2 Nosworthy, 3 Jackman, 4 Smith, 5 S. King, 6 Cox, 7 Southall, 8 A. Hessenthaler, 9 M. King, 10 McDonald, 11 Taylor, 12 Shaw, 13 Brown, 14 Ashby, 15 Saunders, 16 Bentley, 17 Crofts, 18 Hope, 19 Fuller, 20 Bartram, 21 Jarvis, 22 Spiller, 23 Dack Reserves: Nelson, Pennock, Flynn, Asaba

Gills Anorak - 1 Bartram 2 Nosworthy 3 Samuel 4 P Smith 5 Ashby 6 Hope 7 Southall 8 A Hessenthaler 9 M King 10 Shaw 11 R Taylor 12 McEverley 13 Brown 14 Egan 15 S King 16 Crofts 17 Obita 18 Hodge 19 Sidebe 20 Asaba 21 Jarvis 22 Nelson 23 Dack

Lee - Keepers Stuart Nelson Tomas Holy Jack Bonham Defenders Barry Fuller Adam Barrett  Matt Fish  Gabs Zakuani Josh Hare Leon LeggeRyan Jackson John Egan Midfielders  Myles Weston Bradley Dack Jake Hessenthaler Emmanuel Osodabe Chris Whelpdale Sean Clare Josh Wright Mark Byrne Deon Burton Strikers Cody McDonald Danny Kedwell Adebayo Akinfenwa

Louis - This is the hardest question of the lot and will probably never be happy with my final selection. This list has been updated a few times and it kills me to leave out Sidibe In no particular order: 1, Jim Stannard 2, Stuart Nelson 3, Jason Brown 4, Guy Butters 5, Nyron Nosworthy 6, Tony Butler 7, Barry Fuller 8, Chris Hope 9, Barry Ashby 10, Richard Green 11, Andy Hessenthaler 12, Nicky Southall 13, Neil Smith 14, Paul Smith 15, Andrew Crofts 16, David Perpetuini 17, Bradley Dack 18, Paul Shaw 19, Steve Butler 20, Ade Akinbiyi 21, Leo Fortune - West 22, Iffy Onoura 23, Robert Taylor.

Ben - N/A

Luke - Blimey now you're asking. Will try and follow the 2 players per position rule but I'm sure it will go wrong. GK's: Jason Brown, Simon Royce & Stuart Nelson DEF: Nyron Nosworthy, Barry Fuller; Barry Ashby, Simon King, Chris Hope, John Egan;  Roland Edge & Danny Jackman MID: Nicky Southall, Chris Whelpdale; Andy Hessenthaler, Paul Smith, Andrew Crofts, Michael Flynn, Bradley Dack; Matt Jarvis FW: Paul Shaw, Cody McDonald, Tom Eaves & Darren Byfield.

RichardS - Hillyard, Royce, Morris, Green, Fuller, King, Egan, Noseworthy Ashby, Pennock, P Smith, N Smith, Hessenthaler, Shaw, Weatherly, Cochrane, Asaba, Taylor, Onuora, Cascarino, King, Akinbiyi, Yeo,

Steve -  I can’t remember much from the naughtiest these days, but I’ll give it my best shot. Bartram, Nelson, Bonham, O’Neill, Fuller, Pennock, Legge, Barrett, Zakuani, Egan, Nutter, Andy Hess, Jake Hess, Southall, Byrne, Dack, Wright, List, King, Asaba, Taylor, McDonald, Jackson.

Lewis - So my team is from 2007-now: Nelson, Royce, Gazzaniga, Fuller, Fish, Zakuani, Egan, King, Barrett, Jackman, Martin, Wright, C Weston, Crofts, Payne, Southall, Dack, Barcham, Whelpdale, McDonald, Jackson, Eaves, Kedwell.

14. WHAT WOULD YOUR STARTING LINE UP AND SUBSTITUTES BENCH BE FOR GILLINGHAM V ROTHERHAM UNITED THIS WEEKEND ???

Rob - Bonham; Tucker, Ehmer, Ogilvie, O'Connor; Jones; Byrne, O'Keefe; RCC; Hanlan, Mandron. SUBS: Walsh, Hodson, Cisse, Lee, Marshall, Jacubiak, Ndjoli.

Gills Anorak - Bonham, Tucker, O’Connor, Ehmer, Ogilvie, Byrne, Jones, O’Keefe, Cook, Hanlan, Jakubiak. Subs Hodson, Ndjoli, Lee,Walsh, Pringle , Marshall, Mandron.

Lee - Unchanged side from Saturday’s win over Accrington Stanley for me.

Louis - Jack Bonham, Barry Fuller, Max Ehmer, Connor Ogilvie, Thomas O’Connor Mark Marshall, Alfie Jones, Stuart O'Keefe, Regan Charles-Cook, Mikael Ndjoli, Alex Jakubiack Bench: Joe Walsh, Lee Hodson, Jack Tucker, Brandon Hanlan, Mikael Mandron, Mark Byrne, Olly Lee

Ben - Same starting XI at Accrington Stanley!

Luke - Not the one that started and played against them that's for sure.

RichardS - The game is now played so i will leave this.

Steve - I’ll have to base it on the next league game, as I’m writing this after the Rotherham game. I’d go 442. Bonham, Tucker, Ehmer, Ogilvie, Fuller (If he’s fit), Marshall, Lee, Byrne, Pringle, Hanlan and Mandron. Subs are whoever can make it!

Lewis - I’m writing this after the Rotherham game, so I’ll do my team for the next league game against Wimbledon: Bonham - Fuller, Ehmer, Ogilvie, O’Connor - Lee, Jones, O’Keefe - Pringle, Hanlan, Ndjoli. Subs: Walsh, Hodson, Tucker, Byrne, Charles-Cook, Marshall, Jakubiak.

15. AND FINALLY, IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE YOU WISH TO ADD (EXAMPLE: IS THERE SOMETHING I HAVE NOT COVERED IN THE FOURTEEN QUESTIONS ASKED ABOVE YOU WANT TO EXPAND UPON) ???

Rob - I can't think of anything.

Gills Anorak - Nothing To Add.

Lee - Nothing to add , thanks for having me on Lee all the best.

Louis - Nothing To Add.

Ben - Nothing To Add.

Luke - Glad that the club has finally bothered to change that wretched E at the top of the Rainham End.

RichardS - Nothing to add other than we may be in for yet another nail biting season and we would not want it any other way would we.

Steve - Nothing to add. Thanks for inviting me to answer the questions!

Lewis - There’s nothing I’d like to add, really. Maybe a little self plug (@JournalForGills on all platforms ;)), but, other than that, thanks to Lee for asking me to participate in his blog! Up the Gills!

Once again, thank you to everyone for participating in this blog, and if anyone who is reading this who wishes to participate in The Gillingham Supporters Blog throughout The 2019 / 2020 Season, then feel free to send me a message, and your more than welcome to participate in The Next Gillingham Supporters Blog, Hopefully, By The Time The Next Gillingham Supporters Blog, Gillingham will have moved further up The League One Table - COME ON THE GILLS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[fan-of-mulligan]

FOM BLOG: GILLINGHAM SUPPORTERS SEASON PREVIEW FOR 2019 / 2020

Looking ahead to the start of The 2019 / 2020 Season, And With Gillingham kicking off the season with a long trip up north against Doncaster Rovers, I have asked several Gillingham Supporters for there thoughts and opinions on a number of different subjects, Including Gillingham’s Transfer Activity, Gillingham’s Home Form and how does everyone think Gillingham will line up for the opening league game of the season against Doncaster Rovers At The Keepmoat Stadium.

Answering these questions are the following Gillingham Supporters,,,,, Luke, Steven, BQGillsFan, Loonpotter, Simon, Stocky, Dutch Gundersen, Gary, Mark, Gills Debate, Matthew, RichardG, Nathan, Rob, Neil, RichardS, Shane, Smithy, Lewis and Gills In The Blood,  - I want to thank everyone who has participated in the latest Gillingham Supporters Blog, as well as thank those who participated in The Gillingham Supporters Blogs throughout The 2018 / 2019 Season, It is because the involvement of everyone who has participated in the previous four blogs which made these blogs so successful, so once again, thank you, Now on to the questions and answers……..

1. GILLINGHAM HAVE BEEN VERY ACTIVE IN THE SUMMER TRANSFER WINDOW (SIGNING JACK BONHAM, LEE HODSON, ALFIE JONES, CONNOR OGILVIE, STUART O’KEEFE, OUSSEYNOU CISSE, MATTY WILLOCK, MARK MARSHALL, ALEX JAKUBIAK, MIKAEL NDJOLI AND MIKAEL MANDRON) WHAT HAVE YOU MADE OF GILLINGHAM’S SUMMER TRANSFER BUSINESS SO FAR, AND ALSO, WHICH SIGNING ARE YOU MOST EXCITED ABOUT ???

Luke - Some decent signings in there but some I've felt slightly uninspired by. Not quite convinced by the fact so many have played their trade in Scotland as many other Gills signings from north of the border haven't turned out too well. Ouss Cisse looks like he could be an absolute tank in the middle of the park and O'Keefe seems to be a very good leader so probably those two as our midfield was lacking last season.

Steven - Willock

BQGillsFan - Think it's fair to say it has been a positive window for Gillingham. Steve Evans has a lot of experience at this level and knows the kind of players needed to bring a bit of fight and grit to a hopefully successful side. O'Keefe and Cisse epitomise that and I'm excited by those two. A couple of no nonsense midfielders that will add some much needed physicality and nastiness to the centre of the park.

Loonpotter - I've been hugely impressed by the activity in the transfer window.. but not just by the amount that have come in but the quality that has been added.. Ones l’m most excited about are probably Ndjoli, Marshall and Willock.

Simon - Whoever came in as manager was going to have to bring new players in with so many out of contract. I'm looking forward to seeing how this new team does this season. Most of the signings have league experience which is good. Not really sure who excites me most as I haven't really seen them play other than at Folkestone.

Stocky - I think the signings have been very promising and think we are just another 1/2 names away from having a really strong squad to challenge at the right end of the table this year. From pre- season appearances, I've been impressed with O'Keefe who I feel will add a lot of solidity in the middle of the park this year. I've also been impressed at the hold-up play of Mandron and his technical ability since coming into the squad.

Dutch Gundersen - Generally positive - exactly what people said would happen, Evans brings in lots of loans. O'Keefe and Bonham are the stand outs for me.

Gary -  Last season we were picking up good and promising youngsters from sides like us. We have done the same with players from Premier League sides so I am excited to see what quality they can bring. We appear to have brought in players very competent in their positions and, if successful, we have often turned these loan spells into permanent deals. I am most excited about Willock as it has been a long time since we've had some flair at the club.

Mark -  Most excited about Ndjoli. In general we seem to have opened the purse strings and gone up a level in terms of quality. I don’t buy the same budget as last year. I think Evans has had more than Lovell. I think we can thank MEMS for that.

Gills Debate - I think that we’ve done some good business in the transfer window. We’ve addressed some of the key issues, such as replacing Holy (by signing Bonham), and strengthening the midfield with the additions of Willock, O’Keefe and Cisse. From what I saw in the pre-season games against Charlton and Southend, I think that O’Keefe could be a very key player for us this season, in terms of being someone that’s going to get stuck in and win the ball back in midfield. I’m probably most excited by Ndjoli – I think that he looks raw, but he also looks like he’s got lots and lots of potential, and if he hits the ground running then I think that we could have a very useful player on our hands.

Matthew - Very good this year signing lots of good quality players. The most exciting player I am look to see do well is Mark Marshall. In the game against Southend he bossed the first half done that wing.

RichardG - I think pleasantly surprised. Theres some recognisable names at this level which we've had a history of missing for whatever reason. I'm most excited by Matty Willock and look forward to seeing what he can do, I still think we need a left back back-up and possibly a poacher.

Nathan - When Steve Evans comes into your football club, you know that you’re going to see some turnover. What we’ll have this year is real competition for places in most positions which is something you need in a team. Too often you felt under Lovell that if the 11 he picked couldn’t win a game, we didn’t have anyone on the bench who could come on and change things, unless Eaves had been left out! In terms of most exciting, it must be the new-look midfield – particularly Cisse, O’Keefe and Willock. That said, almost all the signings are exciting in their own way. Good luck picking the 11 for Doncaster.

Rob - I think it has been a great close season in terms of both the quantity and quality of players we have bought in. I'm looking forward to seeing the dynamic Willock play and think he'll be a great player. I suspect the best signing may well be O'Keefe who does the dirty work very well.

Neil - Evans has continued his record of signing lots of players as he’s done at his past clubs. He’s concentrated on wide attacking players and midfielders. Excited to see Willock play as he’s from Man Utd who are my 2nd team to Gills.

RichardS - Arguably the most exciting I have been as a Gills fan over a large number  of years. Many excite me. Ogilvie we know is quality although I am not sure he will always play centre half where he's best. O,Keefe I think will be excellent bringing much needed experience and Marshall likewise. I'm particularly looking forward to seeing how Matty Willock gets on. I think the options are endless and gives real depth to the squad.

Shane - I have been impressed with our transfer business so far. Our signings look like promising prospects. I think having Steve Evans on board has helped because it appears he has contacts in the right places. I have been quite excited by a number of our signings. I am feeling optimistic for the coming season. The first time in a while.

Smithy -  I personally feel it's been a good summer so far for signings, better than the last few. After losing Holy I thought it was important to get in a good quality keeper and I think we've done that. Cisse is the player I feel most excited about at the moment, along with Ndjoli.

Lewis - There’s definitely been a big overhaul. Evans is known for that, though, so it is and was pretty expected. I’m happy he’s changed the midfield up and I think the three central players (Willock, O’Keefe and Cissé) are top acquisitions that will help protect the defence a lot more. We needed some wide players and strikers, to replace Eaves, too, so a job well done for me in terms of where we’ve strengthened. We’ll see if we can replace Eaves’ goals in some way, I doubt we were ever going to get another striker that will score 20 goals, but I’m happy with it. In terms of who I’m most excited about, I’ll say Mandron. A bit left field, but he’s impressed me a lot so far. He’s pretty agile for a target man and if he can be a little bit more unselfish I feel like he’ll get plenty of goals.

Gills In The Blood - Willock initially excited me based on his upbringing but I’ll plump for Mark Marshall who is a proven winger at this level, or King Ouss Cissé who looks very accomplished so far.

2. NOT ONLY HAVE GILLINGHAM BEEN VERY ACITVE WITH INCOMING TRANSFER ACTIVITY, BUT ALSO, TOM HADLER, LOUIE CATHERALL, LUKE O’NEILL, RYAN HUCKLE, ALEX LACEY, AARON SIMPSON, BILLY BINGHAM, BEN CHAPMAN, DEAN PARRETT AND CALLUM REILLY HAVE ALL LEFT GILLINGHAM FOOTBALL CLUB, WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS AND OPINIONS ON THE PLAYERS WHO HAVE DEPARTED GILLINGHAM OVER THE SUMMER ???

Luke - Was disappointed that O'Neill wasn't given another deal as he offers more than just being solid at Right Back thanks to his dead ball ability. Also frustrated that Parrett or Reilly haven't really been given opportunities to improve under Evans. The way Evans has handled Parrett, Rees and Stevenson for me has been very poor and I don't agree with chucking them in with the youth team.

Steven -  Sad seeing some faces go and give the youngsters more games.

BQGillsFan - There are some players I'd rather have kept, such as O'Neill, Holy and Eaves, but two of those decided they wanted to move else where so we had little control over those. There did need to be a slimming down of the squad and I think most of the departures are fair. Likes of Lacey, Bingham, Parrett and Reilly are undoubtedly decent players but too injury prone. Everyone else clearly didn't fit into Evans plans so best for everyone to part ways.

Loonpotter - I would just thank them and wish them luck whilst appreciating that we needed more than they could offer hence our position in the table... I would excuse Luke O’Neill from the above and I would have kept him personally…

Simon - Apart from Luke O'Neill (who we will miss for his free kicks mainly) I have no problems with the others leaving. Billy Bingham and Dean Parrett were too injury prone, Callum Reilly wasn't suited to Steve Evans' style and the rest weren't going to play in the first team anyway.

Stocky - I think the majority of those I agree with and have been replaced sufficiently. I would have kept Hadler from the released players as back-up. Bingham is a great player but frustratingly injured more often than not. Luke O’Neill chose to leave us but I would have kept him although Hodson isn't a bad replacement! I was surprised at Reilly being left to depart recently as he had featured in pre-season and felt he had performed well.

Dutch Gundersen - Only sorry to see Tom Eaves go. Not bothered about the rest - they were part of the team that struggled for most of the season. Holy seen as a blow, but only by those who have forgotten how much stick he used to get for simple errors.

Gary - I think its been harsh on players like Reilly and Parrett who seem to have been pushed out. These are players UNDER CONTRACT with families and we would be livid if the reverse occurred. It is clear they have been replaced by better players. Holy and Eaves deserve a chance to play for bigger clubs. I am concerned that letting THREE goalkeepers go leaves a lot on Bonham's shoulders with little experienced back-up.

Mark -  If we are going to break the cycle of relegation battles we have to sign better players that means some have to go.

Gills Debate - I think that I was probably disappointed to see 3 of these players leave in particular – Tom Hadler, Luke O’Neill and Callum Reilly. Having seen young Joe Walsh play in pre-season, I’m not so disappointed to see Hadler leave now, as I think that we’ve got a very capable understudy to Bonham on our books, and someone that has got a lot of potential. Hopefully the move will be the best thing for Hadler as well, as he should now be able to play first team football consistently. I thought O’Neill did well for us over the course of the two years that he played at the club, so I’d have liked to have seen him stay, and while I don’t think Reilly did as well last season as when he first joined on loan, he was one of my picks for the players that I’d been impressed by in pre-season, and I think that the fact that he was left-footed gave us a bit of extra balance, so again I’d have liked to have seen him given further opportunities this season. I think the other decisions are all understandable, whether that’s because the players had problems with injuries (Bingham, Lacey, and to a perhaps lesser extent Parrett), or because they were younger players that wanted to play first team football.

Matthew - I was a bit disappointed to see some of them go. The main person I thought would be a shame that has left is Eaves who you have not mentioned. I really liked his fight even if we were winning or losing.

RichardG - Not too disappointed with those who have gone. Perhaps would have liked to have seen Hadler kept on as a reserve but Walsh has been getting good reviews.

Nathan - It's always disappointing when you see a crop of younger players released, but without seeing them week in and week out, its hard to say whether that was the right decision or not. On the senior players that have been shown the door, I can’t say I’m surprised and fully expect Rees and Stevenson to go too if they can be found clubs. Despite some great moments and a few brilliant individual performances (Lacey against Pompey, O’Neill’s equaliser at Luton) these first team players were too inconsistent. Surprised to see Bingham drop down to the Conference, but good luck to him and hope he can stay injury free.

Rob -  It's sad to see Luke O'Neill leave as I felt he had been consistently good throughout most of his time at the club. His set pieces produced a number of goals and it was the first time in a good few years that I felt confident when we won a free kick. Callum Reilly's departure surprised me, considering he had played the majority of preseason.

Neil - Out of those who have left I think we could miss O’Neill for his free kicks, and Reilly who as a left footer added balance to the midfield.

RichardS - I was sorry to see Luke O Neil move on as I think he did well on the whole for us. I felt Alex Lacey had more to offer and Callum Reilly will be a loss. I do feel we have recruited better so for the others probably time to move on. Good luck to all off them though.

Shane - Most of the players who have departed didn't raise any eyebrows for me. A number of youngsters. Tom Hadler has been waiting for a chance for a few seasons and unfortunately it didn't work out for him. There had to be some first team players go to make room for those incoming. I was surprised to see Reilly depart. But he was obviously not in the new managers plans.

Smithy - I wasn't surprised by Parrett's exit, with the midfielders we've signed I didn't see him appearing much. I was also in two minds as to whether Reilly would also feature much, I am disappointed he's left though. As for the youngsters they need game time so I fully expected some departures and wish the ones that have left well.

Lewis - I was surprised by a couple, a couple were a shame, and a couple were expected. I think the likes of Simpson, Lacey and Bingham leaving, with all due respect, got rid of some dead wood. I was sad to see the likes of Chapman and Reilly leave, but that’s football. Apart from maybe O’Neill, there are no huge losses.

Gills In The Blood - I think we thank them all for their efforts while in and move onwards like they have or will. One or two I was a tad surprised about but on the whole the squad now looks more balanced and ultimately stronger.

3. WHERE DO YOU THINK GILLINGHAM WILL NEED TO STRENGTHEN THE SQUAD IN THE TRANSFER WINDOW ???

Luke - Only think if someone of real quality becomes available that we should look to add. Maybe a left sided player that can play more than one position would be useful or a recognised prolific striker but I doubt we can afford one of those. Some of the youngsters need to be given opportunities as some appear to be very talented.

Steven - I still think we need to strengthen striker and central defender or left back.

BQGillsFan - I'd say we need perhaps another full back and goalkeeper, but Evans seems quite set on giving the youngster Walsh a chance to be back up to Bonham so that's unlikely to happen. Otherwise I'm happy with giving the players we've already bought in the chance to establish themselves and we'll see come January what we may need.  

Loonpotter -  I think we,'re all set and ready now.   I'd be happy as we are.

Simon - We still need a goalscoring striker unless Hanlan or Mandron etc bang them in!

Stocky - I still think we need another left back in personally and at least one more winger. Ideally I would say a proven striker however I can't see that happening.

Dutch Gundersen -  Left back cover and new striker. For me the only man to replace Tom Eaves on the pitch and in our hearts is former Leeds United frontman, Arthur Graham.

Gary - People talk about needing a striker and the club still have an offer tabled for one but we have Hanlan, Ndjoli, Jukubiak and Mandron. We have an abundance of midfielders and 2 for each defensive position so a back-up keeper for me otherwise we have too big a squad. Particularly when Evans said it would be smaller!

Mark - A goalscorer. Someone to get 20 next season. They don’t come cheap and unless Hanlan really kicks on i don’t think we have that person. Yet.

Gills Debate - At the time of writing, I still think that we need a bit of extra cover/competition at left-back, to allow Fuller to compete with Hodson on his more natural right side and I’m also intrigued to see what comes of the bid that we’ve put in for the striker. I think that another winger would probably be useful as well, although I do think that the likes of Charles-Cook, Ndjoli and maybe Jakubiak, will be used from wider areas at times this season.

Matthew - I still think we need another striker to boast what we have already. I hope we can still get the higher league player we are still in for.

RichardG - Left back and poacher.

Nathan - It’s up top isn’t it really. When we signed Eaves, I don’t think there was anyone who thought he’d be a 20 goals a season machine. Hopefully one of the forwards we’ve signed will surprise us, but I still think we’re missing a proven L1 goal scorer. The problem is that someone like that is always going to receive better offers than we can provide so we’re taking chances on players who are hungry to prove themselves. We also need another GK and LB to keep up the competition for places.

Rob - I think we're pretty much there. I'd like to see another left back, not just as competition to Garmston but also to play when he inevitably gets injured. I would wonder about a backup keeper to allow the promising Walsh to play regular football on loan.

Neil - A left back as I can’t see Garmston playing 40+ games this season, perhaps a more central striker who has experience and has scored a few at this level before.

RichardS - With Tom Eaves departure it would be an insurance policy to sign another recognised front man. That said the rumours of another striker being approached might come good before the season starts which means the gap may have been filled.  For me it's the only missing link.

Shane - I still think we may need to strengthen up front. I also think another goal keeper is a must. We cannot be relying on a first year pro if our number 1 is ruled out for a period of time.

Smithy - I still think we need to strengthen the forward line. I'm happy with what we've got but I would like to see a real out and out striker come in.

Lewis - In terms of what’s left, I think I we want a left back and another winger. I wouldn’t rule out a striker that can get goals, either, but left back and a wide man (ehem Jarvis) have to be a priority.

Gills In the Blood - I would love to still see us bring in a ‘proven’ frontman and another left back if I’m being greedy, but if not I’m not disappointed with what we have.

4. GILLINGHAM HAVE GOT THREE HOME LEAGUE MATCHES IN AUGUST (BURTON ALBION, BLACKPOOL AND BOLTON WANDERERS) WITH A LOT OF CONCERNING TALK ABOUT GILLINGHAM’S HOME FORM OVER THE PAST FEW SEASON’S, HOW IMPORTANT DO YOU THINK IT IS FOR GILLINGHAM TO GET OFF TO A GOOD START IN OUR FIRST THREE HOME LEAGUE GAMES OF THE SEASON ???

Luke - It goes without saying that you should start as you mean to go on. Home form cost Lovell his job and Evans needs to ensure that Priestfield becomes a fortress or he may well suffer the same fate as Steve Lovell.

Steven - It's very important to start positively as it will encourage the fans to back Steve Evans and the team.

BQGillsFan - You can see the club desperately wants to get Priestfield rocking given the season ticket campaigns. Getting those first few wins early on will only get fans buzzing and raise the atmosphere, something that has been sorely missing in recent years.

Loonpotter - it's always important but I don’t think we can judge on the last couple of seasons as we have a completely different squad, and with that, a new mindset.

Simon - With Bolton's problems we should be able to secure 3 points against them, The Blackpool and Burton Albion games look more difficult on paper but I'd like to think we will take the game to them rather than sitting back and trying to break on the counter which works away but not at home.

Stocky - I think it is vitally important. Steve Evans has changed a lot of views since coming in due to his approach and mentality which has got fans believing again. The club have done their part by reducing prices and trying to install that togetherness there.

Dutch Gundersen - Vital to win all three to be honest. Fans memories are short, and a few wins will help cement Evans as a legend, and make us all forget that going to Priestfield was a deeply miserable experience last year.

Gary - I don't think a good start is essential. We have a LOT of new players that will need to gel. The home fans have had 2 years of dross so are likely to be a bit reserved, particularly as attendances are lower in August for the holidays. This may cause some tentative play and cost us points. That said, they also will be a fresh team without that prior worry so may hit the ground running. I expect many of our points to come in the middle part of the season.

Mark -  It’s critical. Home Games have been dull for 2-3  seasons. Evans needs a great start at home. Three wins will shut the doubters up. I think he needs 3 as well.

Gills Debate - I think that you always want to start well at home as it allows you to build some momentum and a feel-good factor early on in the season, and that is probably especially important for us given the poor home record that we had over the last couple of seasons. The positivity/excitement seems to have been building over the last few weeks, and a good start at home should allow that to continue once the competitive action kicks off again!  

Matthew - It is always important to start well at home and they are three massive teams but 2 wins and a draw would be nice for me.

RichardG - I think its important for the Evans regime. There was a lot of negative at his appointment but now there is a not of optimism amongst (most of) the fans. If we could get at least 7 points from those 3 home games that could make the atmosphere electric again like the old days.

Nathan - Home form was the undoing for Steve Lovell. Had we had a few more of our wins at home last season, he might still be here. It does feel that the home form over the last 2-3 seasons has really taken the wind out of our sails as a club and a set of fans. Gillingham fans are fickle at the best of times but 5-6 wins a season out of 23 isn’t good enough – the home form surely is the club’s priority. That said, I’ll judge Evans after our first 10-12 homes games not three. However, a win against Burton would be a real statement of intent. We need to make Priestfield an uncomfortable visit for away teams - I never want to hear what Evans said about Posh being walking to ‘walk right through us’. Bolton with all their troubles will be an odd game.

Rob - Vitally important. If we win the first few, then we can really start to believe and get behind the team. Lose the first few and people will be thinking it is "same old Gillingham".

Neil - Yes the home form has been very poor for the past 3 seasons, I hope we can turn it around. Early wins will breed confidence.

RichardS - One things for sure If we are going to kick on our home form must improve significantly on last season. I'm going to predict it will!! SE will be acutely aware of this and see it as a target for sure. I would like to see us winning 2 of the first 3 to set the standard.

Shane - Home form will definitely be essential this season. There seems to have been a dark cloud hanging over Priestfield the past few seasons. Good home form will hopefully fill the stands a create a great atmosphere which has been lacking in the last few seasons.

Smithy - Given all the new players that we've bought in I think they're going to want to show the home fans what they're about and I think as a club we've got a lot to prove this season so I think it's really important that we get up and going quickly and put on some good performances.

Lewis - It will be important because of the home form from last year. Evans struggled at home at Peterborough too so winning a couple at home early will give a big boost to the side in terms of turning around last year’s form.

Gills In The Blood - I think it’s a massive thing, and something that certainly needs improving. Will certainly be interesting considering Evans home record at Posh prior to his departure wasn’t great either.

5. GILLINGHAM HAVE BEEN DRAWN AT HOME TO NEWPORT COUNTY IN THE LEAGUE CUP FIRST ROUND, WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON GILLINGHAM BEING DRAWN AT HOME TO NEWPORT COUNTY, AND DO YOU THINK GILLINGHAM CAN GO ON A DECENT CUP RUN IN THE LEAGUE CUP ???

Luke - We don't have a very good record in the League Cup and I can't see this year be any different.

Steven - I believe that a decent cup run will boosted the atmosphere of the Gills faithful.

BQGillsFan - A home tie against beatable opposition. Can't really ask for more than that. I can't imagine a cup run is something of focus to Evans this season and rightly so. It's all about the league right now.

Loonpotter - It’s an interesting first round.. lovely to be at home and with a good chance of going through also.

Simon - It was good to finally get a home draw and it will be nice to welcome Mike Flynn back to Priestfield. Newport have been a good cup side over the past couple of seasons so it won't be an easy game.  If we can beat them and then get favourable draws in the next rounds there's no reason why we can’t go on a cup run.

Stocky - The game is definitely winnable although Newport have good cup pedigree from previous seasons. The aim for domestic cups in my opinion is always to try and get through to the rounds where the big boys come in. It'll be good to welcome Mike Flynn back to Priestfield.

Dutch Gundersen - No view on Newport. Don't see us going on any sort of cup run, I'm afraid. Burscough lingers long in the memory.  

Gary - Newport , other than Flynn, have no real significance so will be just another hurdle in a competition we struggle in. That said, the first 4 home games are all very winnable and so too is this game. 5 home wins out of 5 would completely alter our season.

Mark -  We should win that. Early cup run is nice to build the positive spirit. We all enjoyed Watford right?

Gills Debate - Personally, I was hoping for a reasonably local away tie at a ground that I hadn’t been too before and wouldn’t be going to this season in league 1 – Somewhere like QPR, Brentford or Cambridge United. However, I think that, while the game won’t be easy by any stretch of the imagination, it does give us a decent chance of progression to the 2nd round, and the match will of course see the return of Michael Flynn to Priestfield. I don’t see any reason why we can’t go on a decent cup run this season in at least one of the Carabao Cup or the FA Cup game, and if we could have another game like the ones against Cardiff City and Watford in recent years, then that would be great!

Matthew - I think it will be a game were we can win. I do hope we have a good cup run this year but we have to focus on the league as well.

RichardG - Gills either do awful or fairly decent so could go either way, who knows!

Nathan - Of course, it will be good to give a warm welcome to Micky Flynn back at Priestfield but I can’t say I’m particularly excited by the prospect of a run in the League Cup! I’ll probably go along but for me, it’s always League first, FA Cup second and everything else a distant third.

Rob - Newport will be an interesting game against Michael Flynn's side with Mark Byrne having played for the opposition too. A good cup run is important although I'd rather it in the FA Cup!

Neil - That’s a good draw. At home for a change, and on paper should beat Newport, but it’s never easy.

RichardS - Always tricky but I expect us to win comfortably. That's probably the kiss of death if there ever was one.

Shane - I enjoy cup football. I think the draw against Newport gives us a good opportunity to go a little further in the cup. A nice little run could fund additional players in the second half of the season.

Smithy - I think Newport is a good first round tie, at home as well so I think that could be a good match. Potentially we've got a strong team so I can't see why we can't go on a bit of a run.

Lewis - I like Newport so it’s pretty cool, although I’d have preferred it to be away. It’s a tie we should win, which could set up a nice cup run, so we’ll see where it goes.

Gills In The Blood - As with every year, it would be nice to navigate the first round or two and then potentially play one of the bigger sides, and if that happens then happy days. Newport will be tough though.

6. WHICH PLAYER FROM LAST SEASON’S SQUAD CAN YOU SEE HAVING A MAGNIFICENT SEASON FOR GILLINGHAM DURING THE 2019 / 2020 SEASON ???

Luke - Can see Hanlan being the main front man this season. He finished last season so strongly, I'm hoping he can push on now and get 15+ goals this season.

Steven - I can see Hanlan and RCC improve a lot this season.

BQGillsFan - Is Hanlan too obvious an answer? For the sake of diversity (as I imagine a lot of people will say Hanlan), I'll go with Max Ehmer. He wasn't at his best last year but towards the end of the season he massively picked up when partnered with a ball playing CB in Ogilvie. If he continues a similar partnership with either Ogilvie or Alfie Jones then I expect Max to have a very strong season as the main leader in the team. Otherwise he'll likely lose his spot to Zakuani once Gabs has recovered.

Loonpotter - Elliot List and Hanlan, I believe are going to smashhh it this season.

Simon - Judging on the latter half of last season I think Brandon Hanlan could have a very good campaign.

Stocky - I think Ogilvie will carry on his good form at centre back and can see Hanlan tearing the league apart this year following the previous season with us. I feel we are lucky with some of the players that have been there a while with the effort they give such as Max and Byrner.

Dutch Gundersen -  Hanlan.

Gary - I think the new signings have stepped us up a gear and last year's squad will struggle. List was fantastic and anonymous in many games although Evans could get much more from him, particularly with a better formation. Hanlan would likely to be the player that steps up a gear given how he gained in maturity towards the end of last season. However, he needs to beef up and I fear his chances will be more limited this season with much stronger competition up front.

Mark - Magnificent is a strong word. It’s a huge year for List, Hanlan and RCC. Can they kick on or not ? List in particular needs to show consistency to match his potential.

Gills Debate - I’m going to go with Max Ehmer. I think that he has done a very good job for us since he first arrived on loan in 2014, but that other than in 2016-2017, he has often been playing alongside either John Egan or Gabriel Zakuani, who were probably considered the 1st choice defender in that partnership for the majority of the time. I think that this season, Ehmer is probably now our 1st choice in that area, and having been given the captain’s armband by Steve Evans, I think that he could really excel.

Matthew - I think Barry Fuller will have another fantastic season. The fans love him here and will never get on his back.

RichardG - Hanlan if he links up with Mandron well. If he scores a few in the first few games that could do his confident the world of good. You could also change Hanlan for List.

Nathan - I’d love to see a brilliant defensive partnership between Ogilvie and Ehmer but I’m crossing my fingers more for Brandon Hanlan. He kept getting better last season and I think that no longer being under Eaves shadow will be a good opportunity to show us what he can do.

Rob - Brandon Hanlan. I think this could be a good season for him. When not stuck out wide, he really found his shooting boots towards the end of last season and I feel we could be getting around 15 goals from him this time.  

Neil - Charles-Cook has featured in a lot of friendlies and I think he could kick on this season with more goals and assists.

RichardS - I'm going to plump for Brandon Hanlon. Has great potential and will be a popular bet for top scorer.

Shane - I think Hanlan will have a good season. Towards the end of last season he was performing well. The only disadvantage is I believe he is out of contact at the end of the season, so if he does have a good season we could end up losing him.

Smithy - Hanlan I think could have a good season if he pushes on and I think he's got good competition this year which could help his progress. I also think this could be a good year for Garmston if he can stay fit.

Lewis - With Tom Eaves gone, I think I a lot of people can agree it’s Brandon Hanlan’s time to shine. He got nine last year and he’ll want to improve on that for sure, and I think he will. He’ll be vital. He and Max Ehmer, taking the captaincy, will be huge.

Gills In The Blood - I’m hopeful that Brandon Hanlan will continue on where he left off at the back end of last term and prove to be an accomplished, more consistent, striker at this level.

7. WITH TOM EAVES SIGNING FOR HULL CITY, WHO IN THE CURRENT SQUAD DO YOU THINK WILL BE GILLINGHAM’S TOP GOAL-SCORER AT THE END OF THE 2019 / 2020 SEASON ???

Luke - Again probably Hanlan. Mandron looks more like a target man and Ndjoli may well be used from the side rather than up front. List could probably chip in with a fair few also.

Steven - I believe Hanlan could be there.

BQGillsFan - It will likely be between Mandron, Hanlan or Jakubiak, depending on who gets the most game time in that central role. I imagine it will be Mandron getting the nod from Evans with Hanlan likely playing out wide more often than not. And I'll spice up my prediction by saying he'll get 16 league goals in 2019/20.

Loonpotter - I would say Ndjoli or Hanlan for top scorer..

Simon - I'll go for Brandan Hanlan again.  

Stocky - I think Hanlan will finish as our top scorer and that Mandron will chip in but will grab more assists than goals.

Dutch Gundersen - Hanlan.

Gary - If Ndjoli can get off to a good start he could have a good season. I think it will be a season where 3 or 4 players get close to 10 goals rather than than 1 getting 20.

Mark - Assuming we don’t sign someone then Hanlan.

Gills Debate - This is a tough choice, as I feel that our forward options could be quite heavily rotated by Evans, and the likes of Ndjoli may be used both out wide, and as an out and out forward. My pick though is Brandon Hanlan. I think that he got better and better throughout the course of last season, and started to look like an accomplished striker at this level. I think that if he continues his improvement in the current campaign, then he could hit up to 15 goals this season, which I think may be enough to be our top scorer currently, as I think we may share the goals out a bit more, as opposed to having one player that gets 20+.

Matthew - This is a hard one for me  but I hope it is Mandron.

RichardG - I can see 2 getting 10ish in Hanlan and Mandron but not sure we'll get a 20 goal man yet...hoping to be surprised!

Nathan - As above, I hope it’s Brandon Hanlan. Of the new crop, they’re somewhat of an unknown quantity and unfortunately, I’m not one of these fans with an encyclopaedic knowledge of the lower leagues! Could Ndjoli surprise us, or even Mandron? Let’s see in May!

Rob - This is a tough one. I think Hanlan, Ndjoli, Mandron and the Watford guy will all get goals, perhaps around 10 each so it might be a close run thing. I doubt we'll see a 25 goal season from any of them but goals spread across the side.

Neil - I will go with Ndjoli but tough to know as we don’t know who will start up front yet. Mandron historically doesn’t score many, but he impressed me v Southend.

RichardS - Pure guess but I'll go for Mikael Mandron.

Shane - I believe Hanlan will score a few more goals than he did last season.

Smithy - I'd like Hanlan to come out on top of the goal scoring charts at the end of the season, but I think the goals are going to come from all over this season. Hard one to call for me.

Lewis - Definitely Hanlan. I believe he’ll kick on and net a few, leading the line and being the main man.

Gills In The Blood - Based on my answer to the above question, I’ll go with Hanlan, but I do think the goals will be spread around the squad a little more this season.

8. GILLINGHAM HAVE PLAYED AGAINST FAVERSHAM TOWN, DEAL TOWN, FOLKESTONE INVICTA, BEARSTED, DARTFORD, CHATHAM TOWN, CHARLTON ATHLETIC, MILLWALL, DOVER ATHLETIC, SOUTHEND UNITED, SHEPPEY UNITED AND WELLING UNITED IN PRE-SEASON - HOW WOULD YOU SUM UP GILLINGHAM’S PRE-SEASON SCHEDULE, AND FROM THE MATCHES YOU HAVE BEEN TO, HAVE THESE MATCHES GIVEN YOU MORE CONFIDENCE HEADING INTO THE 2019 / 2020 SEASON ???

Luke - Only been to the Dover game and we weren't particularly good in that match. If we play like that for the rest of the season then I will be very concerned.

Steven - Pre season has been very decent this season it improved the confidence of the team.

BQGillsFan - It's been a good balance of fitness focused and competitive focused matches in pre-season. Performances have been impressive for the most part, with a lot of the new signings putting in good displays. Overall a positive pre-season for Gillingham.

Loonpotter - I've been given a lot of confidence going into the season... it's all been about fitness but I've seen some really good play as well.

Simon - Never ever ever judge a team from pre season friendlies!  I've been watching Gills since 1965 and good pre season results do not always indicate a good season!

Stocky - The only away pre- season game I went to was Faversham where the class was evident and it was more about getting minutes in the legs. Having attended the home fixtures, I thought we played well in periods although there were flat moments (as to be expected being pre-season) The formation looks interesting and attacking with it appearing that Evans wants us to press from the front. I'm confident we will have a good season based on what I've seen so far.

Dutch Gundersen - Some decent games for once, a genuine warm up. Not interested in the Welling score - was a v young team. Not been to any of the games.

Gary - I haven't seen any of these games.

Mark -  Not been to a single Gills game. This summer i focussed on the Bundesliga. Five stadiums visited and i also went to see Hamburg SV in the second division. Over 45000 and non stop backing from fans. loved it. Reminded me of why I first fell in love with football. I know the atmosphere at Gills will disappoint me after HSV. I Also did the stadium tour at Dortmund. 35000 on a terrace and 87000 total. I love german football.

Gills Debate - I do think that a fairly big part of pre-season is about building fitness, about trying out different combinations, and about seeing what seems to work and what doesn’t, so I don’t want to read too much into any positives/negatives from the performances but I’ve been pretty happy with what I’ve seen overall in pre-season. I quite enjoy some of the games against some of the local Kent sides, but I was also pleased to see that Evans added the games against Charlton, Millwall, and Southend to test ourselves against opponents that are Championship/League 1 quality, and I thought that the performance against Charlton was very good.  

Matthew - They have been good to get to know the players. As I only went to the home games it was nice to see them all play as a team at Prestfield.  

RichardG - I haven't been to any pre-season games as not local but think pre-season has been ok. True test comes 1st day of season.

Nathan - Having only seen us against Faversham, there’ll be people far more qualified than me to tell us how we’ve looked over the pre-season. At the end of the day, you want to finish pre-season without injuries, with some wins under your belt and knowing as a manager who your best 11 are. We had some good run outs against better opposition (Millwall, Charlton) but also lots of opportunity for Evans and Raynor to see the young players. I live more in hope than anticipation, but I don’t think anyone can say this pre-season hasn’t been a good one. I think a few people seemed to be concerned about our performance against Dover and Southend, but it doesn’t worry me too much. It’s what happens on 3 August that matters.  

Rob - We've played a lot of games! Playing double headers is an interesting idea and I'm glad the U23 games haven't been at the same time as the senior ones.

Neil - An odd schedule with games in consecutive days, and the heatwave made it very difficult for the matches at Dover and v Southend. I hope the players haven’t been overloaded, but it’s very scientific nowadays and they analyse the minutes played and distance run etc.

RichardS - Very hard to tell and I always feel pre-season is not an indication of what the season will bring. We've done ok and it has been good to give younger players a run out.

Shane - I haven't been to any preseason games. From what I have read and heard it has been a promising pre season. But it is always hard to judge because in previous seasons I have been optimistic and the season hasn't gone well. But thats the life of a gillsfan.

Smithy -  We've had a good mix of pre-season friendlies this year with some good results. I think its been largely successful, especially in terms of seeing some of the younger players and thinking maybe a couple could be seen around some match days this year.

Lewis - It was ok. I’m sure Evans learnt a lot about his squad. We had a few meh results against the likes of Dover and Millwall but it was productive and plenty of players got minutes in legs which is the main thing. They’ve given me confidence because we played more than we usually would, which will have allowed the side to gel and learn each other’s game. That’ll be important with a lot of incomings.

Gills In The Blood - I’ve only been to what would be classed as first team fixtures over the summer and I’ve been impressed on the whole. The stand out was the Charlton victory, who weren’t far from full strength. Dover was a little underwhelming but was our third game in four days.

9. JOE WALSH, JACK TUCKER, BEN ALLEN AND ROMAN CAMPBELL HAVE ALL BEEN GIVEN OPPORTUNITIES TO PLAY FOR GILLINGHAM’S FIRST TEAM IN PRE-SEASON, WHICH YOUNG PLAYER CAN YOU SEE BREAKING INTO GILLINGHAM’S FIRST TEAM THIS SEASON ???

Luke - Really like the look of Jack Tucker at centre back and with Zakuani being out injured for longer than first expected, I think he could have a chance of breaking in. Think Joe Walsh could play in the Checkapaint Vans Windscreen Trophy so hopefully he can impress in those games too.

Steven - I can see Ben Allen breaking into the mould.

BQGillsFan - Walsh and Allen looked rather impressive in their pre-season outings, but I imagine they'll both only really get opportunities in cup games this year. Walsh will be back up to Bonham, whilst Allen is up against a very stacked midfield in order to make it into the first team. League game time likely going to be sporadic at best for the two of them.  

Loonpotter - Ben Allen or Jack Tucker.

Simon - Probably Jack Tucker.

Stocky - I think due to the lack of wingers currently and his excellent performance against Millwall that Ben Allen seems the most likely and he certainly looks an interesting prospect. I feel Walsh will be sub keeper only, Tucker is 4th choice but has impressed when I've seen him play and can't really see Campbell featuring much.

Dutch Gundersen - I tip Noel Mbo every year, but can't now. The outstanding youngster is likely to be Barry Fuller. ;-)

Gary - Henry Woods. He looked very exciting in preseason last season and has had opportunities this season also. Evans appears to have given his first team game time so perhaps he could make that break although there are an awful lot of players to shift out the way first!

Mark - None of them but the keeper sounds like a prospect.

Gills Debate - I think that Joe Walsh will be our 2nd choice GK this season, so should be involved in the matchday squad on a very regular basis. I was impressed with how he played in the friendly against Millwall, and I expect that he’ll be given opportunities to play in the Checkatrade Trophy / Kent Senior Cup, which will hopefully give him the chance to show us what he is made of. I think that the other young player that is probably closest to pushing for a role in the matchday squad for our league games is Jack Tucker, as with Zakuani currently unfortunately injured, he is our 4th choice centre-back. I think that he’s another player with a lot of potential, and hopefully he’ll continue to get better over the course of the next 9 months or so.

Matthew - I think Ben Allen has been the star of the young group. But we will have to see if he has a part to play this season.

RichardG - Potentially Ben Allen, especially if we don’t sign any more wingers.  

Nathan - I thought Jack Tucker looked good when I saw him play in the second half against Faversham but Evans and Raynor have been talking very highly of Ben Allen. In those positions, there is already competition for places, so I imagine we’d see few sub appearances from them unless we (God forbid) see a few injuries.

Rob - Tucker. Walsh will be in the most match day squads by being the backup keeper, but I feel Tucker could make it this year. With Zakuani out for so long and, I believe, on the verge of retirement, Tucker is the 4th choice centre back and may well feature in a fair number of games. Evans seems to rate him highly.

Neil - Well Walsh will be on the bench as reserve keeper, and I think Tucker could be involved too, with Zak’s injury giving him an opportunity. Campbell and Allen could play in the Football League Trophy and Kent Senior Cup.

RichardS - I said the same last season and it didn't quite materialise but I'm sticking with Jack Tucker. Will be decent given an opportunity I'm sure.

Shane - I have heard good things about those players. It would be good to see them given an opportunity in the first team. It is the only way they will properly learn the trade and gain vital experience.

Smithy - I was surprised we haven't signed a back-up keeper as yet, but I think taking a risk with Joe Walsh could pay off. I can't see him breaking into the squad just yet however. Jack Tucker on the other hand I think could be used a bit here and there if needed.

Lewis - I’m not sure if any will break in permanently but I’ve been impressed with them all. Jack Tucker has been excellent the most for me, he’s not looked at all out of place in the back four when featuring and I wouldn’t be surprised if he got a few minutes this term.

Gills In The Blood - I’ve been impressed with Tucker for a couple of years now so I’ll stick my neck out and say him. Seems to certainly have all the tools to progress into an accomplished ball playing centre back.

10. GILLINGHAM TRAVEL TO DONCASTER ROVERS ON THE OPENING DAY OF THE SEASON, WHAT WOULD BE YOUR STARTING LINE UP (YOU CAN NAME THE BENCH IF YOU WANT TO NAME THE SUBS), AND WHAT FORMATION WOULD YOU PICK FOR SATURDAY’S MATCH ???

Luke - Will base it on the shape Evans has been playing so far as the 4-2-3-1 so the following:

Bonham

Fuller Ehmer Ogilvie Garmston

O'Keefe & Cisse

Marshall RCC List

Hanlan

Subs: Walsh, A.Jones, Hodson, Byrne Willock, Ndjoli, Mandron.

Steven - Bonham Hodson Ehmer Jones Fuller Byrne Willock RCC List Mandron Hanlan - 4.3.3.

BQGillsFan - 4-3-3 Formation: Bonham // Fuller - Ehmer -  Jones -  Ogilvie // O'Keefe (C) -  Cisse // Hanlan - Charles Cook -  Marshall // Mandron // Walsh, Hodson, Garmston, Byrne, Willock, List, Jakubiak.

Really struggled to leave out Ndjoli but someone had to drop out of him or Jakubiak

Loonpotter - Bonham

Hodson

Ehmer

Jones

Fuller

Cisse

O’keefe

Willock

List

Hanlan

Ndjoli

Simon - I've no idea how Steve Evans wants the team to play yet and I haven't seen enough of them to decide what the best line up would be, I'll leave it to Mr Evans.

Stocky -

Bonham

Fuller Ehmer Ogilvie Garmston

OKeefe Cisse

Hanlan Willock RCC

Mandron

Bench- Walsh, Hodson, Jones, Byrne, Ndjoli, Marshall, Jakuniak

Dutch Gundersen - 4 4 2 probably with a goalkeeper behind the defence. Not sure of the line up, not sure who is fully match fit etc.

Gary - Without seeing them it is hard but I would go 4-2-3-1:

Bonham

Hodson / Ehmer / Jones / Ogilvie

O'Keefe / Cisse

List / Willock (or Mandron) / Marshall

Ndjoli.

Mark - I'll leave that to Evans.

Gills Debate - (4-2-3-1) – Bonham, Fuller, Ehmer, Jones, Garmston, O’Keefe, Cisse, Marshall, Charles-Cook, Ndjoli, Mandron.

Subs: Walsh, Hodson, Ogilvie, Willock, Byrne, List, Hanlan

After tipping Hanlan to be our top scorer, I don’t really want to leave him out of my starting 11 for the opening game, but I do think that Mandron probably deserves the chance to start after a good showing against Millwall, and a very impressive performance against Southend in my opinion.

Matthew - I would pick 433 formation. I would go with Bonham, Garmston, Ehmer, Ogilvie, Fuller, O’Keefe, Willock, Charles Cook, Marshall, Mandron, Harlan. That is mine.

RichardG - Bonham, Hodson, Ehmer, Ogilvie, Fuller, O'Keefe, Cisse, Charles-Cook, Marshall, List, Mandron.

Nathan - Bonham, Hodson Ehmer Ogilvie, Garmston and in front of them Cisse and O'Keefe and then Willock. Up top Ndjoli, Hanlan and List. That said I can see Marshall over List or Mandron being in there too. Evans and Raynor have a few big calls to make!

Rob - 4-3-3. Bonham; Hodson, Ehmer, Jones, Garmston; O'Keefe, Cissé, Byrne; Ndjoli, Hanlan, List 10 continued) But really I don't think there's many places that are nailed down. There's plenty of options up front in a variety of positions as well as in midfield.

Neil - 4-2-3-1 formation: Bonham, Fuller, Ehmer, Ogilvie, Garmston, Cisse, O’Keefe, Ndjoli, Byrne, Cook, Mandron. Lots of different options for the front 4 players and I could see Hanlan / List start instead, not sure if Marshall and Jakubiak are ready yet tho. From what I’ve heard Willock isn’t travelling to Doncaster as he’s behind on fitness due to the virus he suffered with.

RichardS - Bonham, Fuller, Ogilvie, Ehmer, Hodson, Byrne, Cisse, Marshall, O,Keefe, Hanlan and Ndjoli. Subs. Mandron, Willock, Tucker, Garmston and Jakubiak. I'd start with a standard 4.4.2  with Marshall pushing on to move more 4.3.3 as the game progresses.

Shane - Bonham, Hodson, Ehmer, Ogilvie, Fuller, O'Keefe, Cisse, Byrne, Hanlan, Mandron, List

Smithy -  

Bonham

Hodson-Ehmer-Jones-Garmston

Marshall-O'Keefe-Cisse-Ndjoli

Charles-Cook

Mandron

Lewis - (4-2-3-1) Bonham - Hodson, Jones, Ogilvie, Garmston - O’Keefe (C), Cissé - Ndjoli, Charles-Cook, List - Hanlan. Subs: Walsh, Fuller, Ehmer, Willock, Byrne, Marshall, Mandron.

Gills In The Blood - I would play at  4-2-3-1 of Bonham, Fuller, Jones, Ehmer, Garmston, O’Keefe, Cissé, Ndjoli, Charles-Cook, List and Hanlan. My bench would be Walsh, Hodson, Ogilvie, Byrne,  Marshall, Jakubiak, Mandron,

11. WHERE DO YOU THINK GILLINGHAM WILL FINISH IN LEAGUE ONE FOR THE 2019 / 2020 SEASON ???

Luke - Somewhere in the top 24 I hope.

Steven - I believe that we can get 10th.

BQGillsFan - Don't say it... Don't say it... Don't say it................ Playoffs!!!

Loonpotter - I believe we'll finish between 6th and 10th..

Simon - I usually predict mid table, but I'll go top half just so 10th.

Stocky - 10th. I think we will challenge and have a good season but don't believe we have enough to creep into the playoffs at this time.

Dutch Gundersen -  14th.

Gary - I think we will have a good start (if Bury and Bolton compete), then tail off against the tougher teams before coming stronger and finishing 8th.

Mark - Just outside the playoffs. If we can win more at home then he’s done ok.

Gills Debate - In the top half, but not quite in the play-off positions – 9th/10th.  

Matthew - I think we will finish in the top half of the table this season. What I have seen in pre season is great.

RichardG - 13th - hoping for higher but underpromise overdeliver!

Nathan - I think if we can finish 10th and a handful of wins away from the last play off spot, we could say we’ve had a good season. Last seasons relegation battle was unbelievable with 10 or 11 teams in the mix until the last few weeks, let’s just stay clear of that!

What I’d like is for Gillingham to not spend February until May constantly looking over our shoulder and dependent on other results. League One gets tougher every year and I hope a few of our fans don’t get carried away with their expectations. Pushed for an actual prediction, I’d say 12th.

Rob - Dare I say playoffs? Probably and hopefully top half.

Neil - 10th place. If we sign a goalscorer then who knows, maybe higher.

RichardS - I said 16th last year and we hovered around that for much of the season.  Emm..I plump for 11th.  Hopefully I'm being cautious.

Shane - My heart says push for the play off places. Head says 11th.

Smithy -  7th-12th fairly comfortably. I don't think we'll find ourselves towards the bottom four this season. I think it has the potential to be a good season.

Lewis - I think top 10. I’m not sure if we’ll reach the play offs but it would be nice to not have to worry about the threat of relegation in the run in. We could push - maybe not the top three or four, but possibly the top 6. We’ll see, but I’m optimistic.

Gills In The Blood - I think we’ll be fine in terms of not worrying about relegation, but unless we can unearth a 20 goal striker - whether that’s by bringing one in or finding one within the squad - I think we may come up short in terms of the Play-Offs so I’ve gone for 9th place.

12. AND FINALLY, IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE YOU WISH TO ADD (EXAMPLE: IS THERE SOMETHING I HAVE NOT COVERED IN THE ELEVEN QUESTIONS ASKED ABOVE YOU WANT TO EXPAND UPON) ???

Luke - Somebody needs to nail the E from The Rainham End back down as it's been sticking out for the past 18 months. Also I'm not fully on the Evans bandwagon just yet, personally still need a bit more convincing frankly.

Steven - Nothing To Add.

BQGillsFan - I know the appointment of Steve Evans divided a lot of fanbase, but for the next 9 months just focus on getting behind the boys wearing the shirt. There's nothing to be gained from looking for Evans or the team to fail. Don't boo the team or the manager if we lose a few games. Don't start chanting Evans out just because we don't win every game. Just get behind the team and who knows, maybe we can celebrate a surprising success come May.

Loonpotter - No further comments your honour..

Simon - Nothing To Add.

Stocky - Up The Gills.

Dutch Gundersen - Nothing To Add.

Gary - Nothing To Add.

Mark - Ha ha how did you avoid a question on Evans as manager? Scally has gambled big time. I agree with Evans appointment but suspect many will relish any failure.

Gills Debate -  Nothing To Add.

Matthew - No your questions have been great as always.

RichardG - Lots of criticism come in for Evans and I was not a fan of the appointment. However, he's brought some optimism to the club and something we've not seen for a while. Some credit for Scally too for backing him.

Nathan - One thing that has disappointed me in the last few seasons is how disrespectful some of our fans were about Steve Lovell, a club legend and Ady Pennock, a play-off final winner when things weren’t going well. When Steve Evans was linked with us, I was very much against and when it was made official, I was not ‘best pleased’, shall we say. The open Q&A with Evans and Raynor by the club was a master stroke and while by no means a full conversion, I left feeling very differently about the pair when I left than I did when I went in. I guess what I’m saying is, whoever is in the hotseat, let’s get behind them, get behind our players and each other as fans. And remember, it’s the hope that kills you. UTG.

Rob - I just hope Evans stays out of trouble this year. I know he's banned for the first few games but I hope that is all he misses. If he truly has changed character and stopped abusing officials and opposition staff then that's a positive sign. I'm yet to be convinced.

Neil - Up The Gills!!!

RichardS -  Nothing to add other than let's get behind the team this season home and away and enjoy the rollercoaster that inevitably comes with our wonderful club. Up the Gills...

Shane - Nothing To Add.

Smithy -  Up The Gills!!!!!

Lewis - Nothing to add, but thanks as always to Lee for asking me to participate in his blog again, and up the Gills!

Gills In The Blood - As always, thanks for the invite to get involved, and Up the Gills!!

Once again, thank you to everyone for participating in this blog, and if anyone who is reading this who wishes to participate in The Gillingham Supporters Blog throughout The 2019 / 2020 Season, then feel free to send me a message, and your more than welcome to participate in The Gillingham Supporters Blog, Hopefully, Gillingham can get off to the perfect start by picking up all three points against Doncaster Rovers in the opening match of the season - COME ON THE GILLS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!