Gillingham boss Steve Evans is keen to strengthen the left-back area but hasn’t ruled Bradley Garmston out of his plans.

Garmston found games hard to come by at Gillingham last season despite shaking off the injury problems that had plagued him in previous campaigns.

Barry Fuller’s form in that position meant he was left watching for much of the season but Evans is keen to get a more naturally suited left-back in the building.

It would mean Fuller then having direct competition with newcomer Lee Hodson for the right-back berth.

While Connor Ogilvie can play left-back he’s now preferred as a left-sided centre-half.

Garmston has been in America working on his fitness and Evans is keen to see what he’s going to bring to the squad ahead of the new campaign.

• Released keeper finds new club
• Evans hunting for Eaves' replacement
• Podcast: Neil Smith's rollercoaster ride
• Midfielder opts for non-league switch

Evans said: “I think Garmston has been very unlucky with injuries. I watched Gillingham three times and twice I have watched him and he was very good.

“We are still looking to strengthen that left-back area. Bradley might be able to stop me looking.”

Last season Garmston, now 25, looked to have shaken off his problems, although he didn’t see much action as he competed with both Ogilvie and Fuller for the left-back role.

Previously he has suffered with hamstring problems but has worked hard on overcoming them.

Evans will take a hard line on injuries this season and has told the players as much.

He said: “You can’t have players playing within themselves at the top end of League 1. The kid has been on a fitness programme at his own cost to do a lot of strengthening work.

"He has flown back last week and will be back with the boys on Thursday (for the start of pre-season). I look forward to watching that, to see if two weeks into pre-season we have issues.

“He wants to stay and play and try and he is one who we will have a very open mind about.”