Martin Allen believes a family spirit at the club has helped them soar to the top of League 2.

The Gills boss has one of his sons, Charlie, on the club’s payroll but he insists that every one of the players is like a son to him.

"I think we have got a relationship with all of them," said the Gills boss. "They are all like my sons; I am very proud of them.

"I look after them. I never tell them off. I help them through stuff and talk to them and my door is always open to them."

Whatever Allen is doing, it is working. The Gills have yet to lose a match in the league this season and they sit three points clear at the top of the table.

He added: "I want to see them enjoy themselves and I want to see them make the best of their ability," said Allen, of his current crop.

"Some people ask me if it’s difficult with Charlie but I have the same relationship at work with all of them.

"Since I have been here they have all been fantastic. They have been very disciplined and very respectful of everyone, not just to me, but to all the staff at the club and it’s no coincidence that we’ve got all of these points so quick."