Sacked manager Mark Bonner believes Gillingham are primed to have a successful second half of the season.

Before he was removed from his post, a number of big players were coming towards full fitness, with influential Armani Little back involved. Other big summer signings like Aaron Rowe and Bradley Dack are also available.

As is the norm these days, Bonner released a statement through the League Managers’ Association following his Gillingham exit.

He said: ‍“I would like to thank (owners) Brad and Shannon Galinson and the senior management team for the opportunity to manage Gillingham Football Club.

“After a summer of hard work and setting the foundations to build a culture of success, we enjoyed an outstanding start to the season.

“Since then, results and performances have been disappointing, and we have been unable to find the level and consistency we all wanted.

“As many of the players are now fit and available, I expect a consistent team to emerge and have a strong second half of the season.

“I hope the new management team will continue the work of creating a team and culture that will bring about the success that the club deserves.”

Bonner left the club alongside assistant manager Anthony Hayes but fellow coaches Pete Gill, Deren Ibrahim and James Russell have remained, back working with new boss John Coleman this week.

He thanked those, saying: “I leave grateful and proud of the quality of work and professionalism from the whole backroom team.

“Your loyalty, endeavour and commitment has made for an outstanding working environment. I extend these thanks to the committed and talented players in the squad.

“I am also grateful to the supporters and club staff for the way I have been welcomed since the summer and wish John Coleman, the squad, and everyone connected with Gillingham Football Club the very best for the future.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed the experience and I look forward to using the lessons learned and energy gained in future roles.”

Gillingham were top of the table at the end of September but a drastic reverse of fortunes has seen the team slide into the bottom half of League 2, prompting the club’s board to make a change.