Gabriel Zakuani’s expected return will be a major boost for Gillingham when they head to Walsall in League 1 on Saturday.

The defender has been away on international duty with the Democratic Republic of Congo, a trip which ruled him out of last weekend’s draw with Bury at Priestfield.

A win for DR Congo over Guinea wasn’t enough for them to qualify for the World Cup, narrowly missing out after Tunisia got the point they needed to top their qualification group and earn a place at Russia 2018.

Interim boss Steve Lovell said: “It will be great to have him back around. He is a calming influence to us and has had a good season.

“It would be nice to have him back but, saying that, the boys on Saturday did well, particularly in the second half when we went to a three (at the back). I was pleased with them.”

Zakuani and Max Ehmer have forged a decent partnership this season, amid various formations.

“They have had a good understanding together,” said Lovell.

“Connor Ogilvie has also gone in and done a good job as the left-sided centre-half.”

The Gills could have Bradley Garmston (hamstring) back in the squad for the weekend.

“He is doing well and is close,” said Lovell. “I am optimistic he could be around for Saturday, that would be great for us. We don’t want to push it too much with the problems he has had, he will know himself when he is 100% right.”

Central defenders Ben Nugent and Alex Lacey, though, are still waiting for the all-clear before returning to action.

Lovell said: “They are training and are not far away from joining in with the group on a daily basis.

“Ben has bruising and pain in his foot and has to get used to kicking the ball again.

“Alex is the same, he has a bit of pain when he strikes through a ball but they look to be striking it well. I don’t think they are far.”