Garry Richards has signed a new two year contract with Gillingham.

The 24-year-old defender (pictured) joined the Gills from Southend United in January 2008 and has gone on to make 77 appearances for the club.

He missed the back end of last season after injuring his ankle in a collision with keeper Alan Julian at Millwall.

A summer of rehab means he should be back fully fit for the new season when it kicks off in August.

Boss Andy Hessenthaler was delighted to get Richards signed up.

"I like him," said Hessenthaler. "He’s got a great attitude towards the game and he’s a player that will give us everything he’s got."

"He is a good centre half. He’s coming back from a slight injury and he is a good lad, a winner and I had a good chat with him face to face. I like what I heard from him and I think he liked what he head from me.

"He’s the type of player that you need at the football club and I’m pleased we’ve got him."

Richards was last of the out-of-contract player to clarify his future. Dennis Oli, Mark Bentley and Barry Fuller have all agreed new deals, while keeper Simon Royce moved to Brentford.

Now that the out-of-contract players have been sorted, who should manager Andy Hessenthaler sign next? Add your comment here.