Kevin Maher in action against Northampton on Saturday Pic: Barry Goodwin

Matt Lawrence has praised midfielder Kevin Maher for offering valuable assistance to the defence.

The Gills have tightened up at the back in recent weeks with three successive home clean sheets.

"During this run it’s been more than just the defence and the goalkeeper," said the former Crystal Palace man.

"Kevin Maher sits in front of us and does a great job. I think it is very evident that when he does sit there we do perform a whole lot better.

"He gives the back four a presence and a screen. He knows what he’s doing and I’m glad I’m playing behind him."

Lawrence and Maher are two of the most experienced players in the side.

And at 36, Lawrence admits he is always cautious to take care of himself.

"I’ve noticed it does take longer to recover," he said.

"I know what my body can take and there is no point running my legs into the ground in training.

"That’s not helpful and the manager has been very helpful in that he gives me extra days off. It’s sensible all round."

Lawrence has played 23 games for the Gills since signing in the summer and has been a virtual ever-present at the back. He’s now hoping for a fruitful second half of the season.

He said: "We haven’t yet proven how good we are because we haven’t achieved anything but we’ve proved how good the team can be. Hopefully we can move on from here."

Click the audio link below to listen to the thoughts of Matt Lawrence after Saturday's win over Northampton.