Chris Whelpdale has never experienced mid-table obscurity as a professional footballer and doesn’t plan on making this season the first.

The attacking midfielder (pictured), who enjoyed a brief but explosive loan deal with the Gills last season, has been in the pro game for four years, experiencing three promotions and one relegation.

All of those came during his time at Peterborough, who he joined in 2007 from Billericay.

Back-to-back promotions with the Posh from League 2 led him to the Championship, but their time there lasted for just one season. He finished last season with a play-off winner’s medal after helping guide the side immediately out of League 1.

After making 125 appearances during his time at Peterborough he was quick to sign for Gillingham after being made available for transfer.

He said: “It’s a drop of one division for me but I am sure that with the squad that we have got, we have got the ability to go up to League 1 next year.

“It’s a great squad and one with a very good chance of being up towards the top of the table.

“We are aiming for promotion and we have a great chance of getting back into League 1.”

Whelpdale has fond memories of his time at Priestfield last season. He joined a team on their knees, having lost to Dover and dropping close to the League 2 drop-zone. Four energetic appearances and three goals helped ignite the Gills’ season.

“It’s good to be back,” said the 25-year-old Essex boy. “Last time I was here I loved it and really enjoyed playing football week in, week out with a great bunch of lads and great management.”

Whelpdale returned to Peterborough and played a part in their promotion, although often playing right-back instead of his favoured right-wing position. He came off the bench late on in the play-off final victory over Huddersfield but found himself on the transfer list at the end of the season.

Gillingham came calling and he didn’t have to do much thinking.

“As soon as I heard Gillingham were interested I was dead keen to talk to them and I am pleased to be here,” he said.

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