Stuart Nelson looks like he has won the battle to reclaim his No.1 spot at Gillingham.

A dip in form at the start of the season led to manager Justin Edinburgh bringing in Reading keeper Jonathan Bond on loan.

Bond was immediately installed as the first choice keeper but a recent injury to the Reading man gave Nelson the chance to show what he could do.

The Gills travel to Bolton on Monday and 35-year-old Nelson will make his 200th start for the club, even if Bond is fit again.

Boss Justin Edinburgh said: “He is starting to get back to the form he had last year, absolutely looking on top form.

“He looks really assured and like he was for all of last season.

“He had a dip in form and that happens, even at the age Stu is. We all have little dips, same as Joe Public. They don’t over-exceed and produce the best that they can every day.

“We are only human and we do have little dips on form.

“I am pleased for him. 200 games for the football club is a fantastic achievement. He is a good professional and a good goalkeeper and in this form, one of the best in the league, no doubt about that.”

Asked if that meant Nelson was back as No.1, Edinburgh said: “100%. That is what it is about, taking the opportunity when it is given to you, that is how football works.”