Goalkeeper Glenn Morris saw the funny side of being labelled ‘England’s No.2’ by the fans in the Rainham End last Saturday.

Morris had big gloves to fill at the weekend after being picked to replace fans’ favourite Stuart Nelson in the starting XI.

Last season’s player-of-the-year Nelson – often greeted to chants of ‘England’s No.1’ by the Gills faithful – was left on the bench.

Former Southend, Leyton Orient and Aldershot keeper Morris has been handed a chance by Gills boss Justin Edinburgh in a bid to earn a new deal for next season.

Morris said: “There is a little bit of added pressure because he (Nelson) has done fantastic here and deserves having the fans holding him in high regard but they just want to back anyone.

“If you do well, they will back you. I was getting a few shouts of England No.2!

“The Rainham End gave me a good welcome and helped me out with a few good shouts, which is what you need.

“I am old enough and been around long enough but if you haven’t played for a while, you do get a little bit nervous but it’s a good thing, as it keeps you on your toes.

“Nels was brilliant. We are good friends as well as team-mates. It was hard for him and I understand but he was as good as gold for me and helped me out as much as he could.”

Morris joined the Gills last summer on a one-year deal and now hopes to impress enough to get an extended stay.

He added: “When the future is uncertain it is never easy, you don’t know what is around the corner but that is what football has been like for me and for many others and you get used to it. It isn’t a problem."

Read the full interview in Friday's Medway Messenger