by Luke Cawdell

Stuart Lewis joined the travelling party at Southampton on Saturday as he prepares to make a welcome return from injury.

Lewis (pictured) has been out since pre-season with an ankle injury and he is desperate to get back involved after Saturday’s taster.

"I’m itching to get back out there and really kick on with my season," said the 21-year-old Gillingham midfielder. "I feel like I’m nearly there. I got back into training on Thursday. I’ve been doing quite a lot of fitness work and swimming. Considering I’ve been out for a while I feel quite good.

"I’m just eager to get the shin pads back on but that’s down to the manager and we’ll see what he’s got in store for me. Hopefully it will be sooner rather than later."

That could be the case for Lewis after Danny Jackman picked up an injury at Southampton and others failed to shine.

"We might have to put him in but I don’t think it will be Tuesday," said boss Mark Stimson.

If Lewis does get an earlier than expected call-up, the player has no fears and insists he’s ready for action.

Lewis said: "I feel that if I am called upon I would love to be out there at Priestfield and try and get a result for the lads.

"The adrenaline gets you through it and when you get in the side no player wants to come off. You just want to play, and maybe I’m being too optimistic, but if called upon I would love to be out there.

"It’s tough but that’s just part and parcel of being injured."