Doug Loft is confident Gills will be able to maintain their impressive pre-season form against Championship Ipswich Town.

Gills have only so far played non-league teams but face a massive step up in class of opposition on Saturday.

Mick McCarthy’s Ipswich finished ninth in England’s second tier last season but new signing Loft said: “The quality always varies but you go into every game the same. You work hard and try and get a good result.

“So far this pre-season we have done well and all of the boys have been a credit. We have worked hard in training and hopefully we can kick on and win against Ipswich.

“This is going to be the hardest game we have had but I am confident in the lads and what they can do. I am sure we will give them a good game.”

The 27-year-old midfielder added: “I had a good season last year and am sure I will have a good season this year as well.

“I am confident in my ability and in this squad. There are a lot of good players here.

“In each position there is someone challenging and that’s what you need.”