Mark Stimson gets the opportunity to name his strongest side of the pre-season tonight against an Ipswich XI.

The Gillingham manager will give his brightest stars of the last month an extended runaround at Priestfield before bringing on those still aiming to impress.

Several players have been carrying knocks and Stimson has yet to see Nicky Southall since the end of last season. He could make a return tonight.

New signing Mark McCammon is unlikely to be risked as he continues to shake off a hamstring injury.

Exciting winger Alistair John, who picked up a slight hamstring injury, will hope to get the chance to impress against league opposition at Priestfield but may have to settle for a second half appearance.

It remains to be seen what Ipswich manager Jim Magilton’s plans are for the game.

He could take the opportunity to give new signing Richard Wright a place in goal, but he’ll be mindful that the club have already promised to take a strong team to Tiptree United the following day, so are likely to field a mixture of seniors, youth and trialists.

Kick-off tonight is at 7.45pm.

Read the report and reaction from tonight’s match here on Kentonline.