Steve Lovell has returned to Gillingham as caretaker manager following Steve Evans' departure.

Lovell was sacked by the Gills, and replaced by Evans, two-and-a-half years ago.

But with Evans departing Priestfield by mutual consent on Sunday, chairman Paul Scally has turned to a familiar face to help him out.

Lovell, out of work after leaving Welling earlier this season, met the squad today and will be in the dugout for Saturday's home game against Burton Albion, assisted by Gills midfielder Alex McDonald.

"The club can confirm that chairman Paul Scally met with senior members of staff, and a number of senior players, at the stadium this morning at 8.30am before addressing the entire squad at 9.30am to discuss the week ahead," said Gillingham in a club statement.

"There, it was unanimously agreed that the chairman should try and bring someone in to help on a short-term basis, to run the game on Saturday, and everyone was happy for Steve Lovell to come in and offer his support.

"He met the team at the training ground, and he will assist as much as he can while a permanent replacement is found.

"Steve will be assisted by Alex MacDonald; they will prepare the team ahead of Saturday’s visit of Burton Albion."

Evans left Gillingham after a 4-0 defeat by Ipswich left them seven points from safety in League 1.

Former players Neil Smith and Michael Flynn were among the names immediately linked with the post.

KentOnline has been looking at how Evans' Gills record fares compared with his predecessors.