Experienced defender Gabriel Zakuani is staying with the Gills.

He is the second player to sign a new deal with the League 1 club after forward Elliott List also agreed to extend his Priestfield stay.

Zakuani, 31, was a big hit last season, helping to transform the club’s defensive fortunes, playing much of the season alongside Max Ehmer.

Ehmer has already spoken out about how his game has improved since playing alongside the DR Congo international.

Boss Steve Lovell said: “He has been fantastic for us this year.

“Gabs has got great defensive qualities. He is a leader, he wears his heart on his sleeve and he has been fantastic for us.

“It's a great bonus for him to sign and we are really happy with that.”

Zakuani said: "I have really enjoyed my time here so it's great to know I'm staying. I can’t wait for my first tackle already!”

The defender joined the Gills last summer following a season with Northampton. He was signed by former boss Ady Pennock with the task of improving a back-line that shipped more goals than any other in League 1 during the 2016/17 season.

He was a regular in defence throughout the 17/18 campaign, making 40 league appearances as the Gills maintained their place in the division.

His former clubs include Leyton Orient, where he won promotion, Stoke City, as part of the squad that won promotion to the Premier League and more recently Peterborough United.

Zakuani has made over 400 league appearances so far in his career and has also captained his country.