Gillingham’s players are itching to see some action, says boss Peter Taylor.

And they will get their chance on Friday when they travel to Ryman League, Division 1 South side Folkestone Invicta.

The Gills have been back in training since the start of the month and the game will be the first of eight first-team matches before the season begins on August 9.

Taylor plans to field two teams at Folkestone, one in each half.

“It will be mix-and-match and not necessarily what I consider my best team,” said Taylor.

“It will be two strong teams and I am looking forward to that. The players have worked hard but they just want a proper game now.”

Gillingham could be without new signing Josh Pritchard after the midfielder injured his ankle on a treadmill. But fellow recruits Glenn Morris, Aaron Morris, Brennan Dickenson, Jermaine McGlashan, Luke Norris, John Egan and Doug Loft are all expected to feature.

The Gills could feature former Tunbridge Wells midfielder Josh Stanford in their team. He has been training with the club.

The match doubles up as a testimonial for Folkestone skipper Liam Friend. Kick-off is at 7.30pm.