Opportunity knocks at Gillingham following Sean Clare’s return to Sheffield Wednesday.

The club are hoping to bring Clare back but it’s likely that the Gills will be without him when they host lowly Rochdale on Saturday in League 1.

Clare has been an attacking threat for the Gills from midfield this season and a replacement is now being sought.

“It is a chance now for other people in that midfield role,” said manager Steve Lovell.

“We have gone through different scenarios ready for Saturday and we will see who looks the best fit to play in whatever system I play.”

Scott Wagstaff is set to return while Bradley Garmston will be looking to continue where he left off, against Charlton on New Year’s Day, after recently overcoming an injury.

“They are both looking bright,” said Lovell, after training on Tuesday.

“Waggy will be involved Saturday, all being well, he has trained now and looks sharp and fit.”

Elliott List is also back fit after illness.

Clare’s next move, meanwhile, is now all down to his parent club Sheffield Wednesday.

“It is out of our hands,” said Lovell. “It is down to Sheffield Wednesday and what they want to do with him. It has been well documented that Sean would love to stay here and we would love him to be here.

“He is contracted to Sheffield Wednesday and they hold all the cards. If they don’t want him to go, then he doesn’t go anywhere. Sheffield Wednesday have a new manager going in there and he wants to have a look.

“You don’t blame him for that, that’s what I would do. He might go into their first team and if he does, it is good for Sean.”