Peter Taylor hopes success as interim manager at Priestfield will open the door for a permanent appointment.

Taylor has agreed to take over the management reigns on a temporary basis while Gillingham chairman Paul Scally considers who to employ as permanent successor to sacked manager Martin Allen.

Former Gills boss Taylor, who led the club to play-off success at Wembley in 2000, is keen to be that man.

Taylor, speaking to Sky Sports, said: “He (Mr Scally) asked me if I would be prepared to go in there short-term, which I am.

“I really enjoy the coaching and I enjoyed working with Gillingham (previously) and I am very happy to do that.

“Of course, I would like to be doing well and then I can throw my name in the hat.”

Taylor’s year at Gillingham in the 1999/2000 season saw him guide the club to Wembley, in the play-offs, where an extra-time victory over Wigan earned them a place in the Championship.

But he soon departed Priestfield when Premier League Leicester City came calling.

Since leaving the Gills he has enjoyed promotions at Brighton, Hull and Wycombe, while also winning trophies for national side Bahrain.

He has been a regular visitor to Priestfield since his departure and has kept in close contact with Mr Scally.

And when the Gillls chairman rang him this afternoon, he was quick to accept the offer of helping the club out.

He said: “It was a great year (in 1999/2000) and I know it’s going to be different this time. I am also looking forward to it.

“I am sure (Mr Scally) was inundated with agents and CVs and everything else and I think he just didn’t want to make another long-term decision.”

Taylor will take charge on Saturday when the Gills host Preston North End at Priestfield.