Boss Mark Stimson believes Danny Jackman’s experience will be vital to Gillingham's bid for survival in League 1.

Jackman made his long awaited return for the Gills on Saturday in the 0-0 draw against Walsall after four months on the sidelines.

"It’s great to have him back," said Stimson, after putting Jackman on for the final 13 minutes at Priestfield.

"He’ll help us achieve what we want to do this season. It is like a new signing, who can play at this level and knows what is needed week in, week out. If you look at our squad we haven’t got many of those.

"Danny is one of those I call a seasoned pro as he knows the level and knows what is expected."

Jackman has been out since dislocating his shoulder in the game at Southampton on October 3.

Stimson said: "It’s been a bit of a hard slog for him over the last few weeks and I don’t think Danny Ellis (fitness coach) has been his mate. Danny Ellis has asked him to do more and more and Danny Jackman has been saying ‘I can’t do any more’.

"We’ve got him into the kind of shape we want him at this stage."