Garry Richards joined Gillingham's travelling party to France and could be back available for selection by this weekend.

The big defender, pictured, missed the back-end of last season with a damaged ankle and spent the summer in rehab but is now on the verge of a return, although Tuesday's game with Peterborough comes too soon.

Gills manager Andy Hessenthaler said: "I can’t see him being available for Peterborough but maybe some sort of run-out against one of the sides at the weekend, Bishop’s Stortford or Ebbsfleet."

Hessenthaler will also be hoping an injury to striker Stefan Payne doesn’t become a problem. He came off early on Saturday against Calais.

"He fell awkward with the ball and he got a twist so we took him off," said the Hessenthaler.

"He had also got a booking, but to be fair the referee was booking everyone.

"He should be okay and we’ll have to see if there is any swelling there."

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