Young midfielder Jack Payne believes the hard work on the training ground is paying off.

The 20-year-old recently returned from a groin injury but had to put in the hours to claim a place back in Martin Allen’s Gillingham team.

Payne (pictured) said: "Training has been hard but it’s worth it because I’m back in and I’m playing.

"The injury meant I missed two weeks of training and I needed to catch up. The gaffer and the staff pushed me and I think it’s paying off.

"If you are not playing you know you need to work. It needs to be done and everyone feels the benefit when you are called upon to play."

Payne has started the last three games for the Gills but now in a more advanced role, having played the defensive midfield role under previous managers.

"I was the sitter (in front of the defence) last year but I am enjoying the more attacking role," he said. "I am obviously still doing my defensive duties but I am further up the pitch this year.

"At first I wanted to stay where I was, because I had played there before, but I think I am getting there now and the coaches are helping out. It’s showed on the pitch that I can do it further forward."