Defender Matt Fish was as pleased as anyone to see the Gills retain their League 1 status last season.

After playing a crucial role in winning the League 2 title the previous year he missed almost all of last season through injury.

He was desperate to showcase his talent at the higher level but just five minutes into the campaign, his knee gave way. A ruptured ligament left him facing months of rehabilitation.

He made a welcome return in the final game of the season and the former Crystal Palace trainee is now looking forward to another crack at League 1 football.

Fish said: “I was ready for League 1 and to get the injury was annoying but that is done now. I have to forget about it, get as strong as I can and be ready for pre-season.

“I want to prove myself at League 1. I have done it at League 2 and I know I can handle myself at that level and now I want to do it at this level. If I can kick off where I left off then I think I will be alright.

“Last season went so quick but I try not to think about losing a whole season because going from playing 40-odd games I have then lost 40.

“It’s been frustrating but I like to think I have come out of the other side stronger for it.”

Read more from Matt Fish in Monday's Medway Messenger newspaper.