By Luke Cawdell

Nicky Southall was included in Gillingham’s squad for the first time on Saturday after registering as a player.

Southall, pictured, joined the Gills as first-team coach in the summer but a shortage of fit players meant he signed on to play, should he be required, and he was an unused substitute at Hereford.

He was an ever-present last season at Dover under manager Andy Hessenthaler as they finished runners-up in Blue Square South.

Southall has made 375 appearances for the Gills and first turned out for the side in December 1997 following a move from Grimsby.

Meanwhile, Gills have been drawn away to Southend in the first round of the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy.

The Southern section match will take place at Roots Hall on the week beginning August 31.

How do you rate Gillingham's chances in the Johnstone's Paint Trophy against Southend? Have your say in our comments section below.