GILLINGHAM take on Lille tomorrow in Montreuil boosted by words of encouragement from an unexpected source.

Adrian Heath, Peter Reid’s new right-hand man at Premier Division Leeds, believes the side have nothing to fear after watching Wednesday’s 3-0 defeat by Lens in Le Touquet.

Heath, who will again be in the crowd tonight for the last of Gillingham’s three games in France, stressed he is scouting for French players.

He said: “I thought Gillingham did especially well against Lens because this is a club that has firm designs on winning the French title next season. They certainly don’t have anything to feel ashamed of.

“I came to Le Touquet for many years with my former club Sunderland who conducted their pre-season preparation here so I know the players well at both Lens and Lillle.

“Gillingham were up against some who are out of the top drawer on Wednesday night. To hold them goalless at half-time was a terrific achievement.

“Andy Hessenthaler is clearly doing a fine job and I was impressed with a number of the Gillingham youngsters who came on in the second half. They did well against quality opposition.”

Of tonight’s match, Heath added: “If Gillingham keep it as tight as they did in the first half against Lens, I would fancy them to beat Lille who finished below them last season.

“Playing against this kind of quality opposition will assist Gillingham in their pre-season preparation.”

Player-manager Andy Hessenthaler added: “I thought we gave a good account of ourselves and all credit to the players for holding the former French champions at half-time.”

The Gills boss is likely to field much the same sides tonight in Montreuil.

Gillingham opened their mini French tour on Tuesday with a 4-0 win over a team of trialists. Paul Shaw (2), Richard Rose and Matt Jarvis, whose form is giving his manager plenty to think about, were on target.

After their weekend return from France, Gillingham are back in action on Tuesday when they play Division 3 promotion hopefuls Southend at Roots Hall. Kick off is 7.45pm.

On Saturday, July 26 they visit Hessenthaler’s home town Gravesend.