The new Major League Soccer season is underway but for Gillingham’s own Luis Binks it’s a question of having to wait to make his MLS return.

The Medway youngster has returned to play for CF Montreal – the club formerly known as Montreal Impact – but has found a very different club to the one that he left in December.

In our first conversation with Luis in the new season, we started by asking how he was settling into life in Miami – Montreal’s base for the new season as the COVID restrictions still in place in North America do not permit direct travel between the US and Canada.

“It’s not ideal as some players and staff aren’t with their family,” Luis told us, “and we can’t play in front of our fans or at our own stadium! But the club have been brilliant and allowed family to come down here with us and the hotel is nice so it’s been as good as it can be.”

“But for me family can’t travel as the borders are blocked from England so that’s tough… but being in Miami helps!” And he then added, “Before you ask, yes I have met David Beckham last week and had a picture… I don’t think I’ve been in awe of anyone before but seeing him was surreal as he’s always been one of my idols for what he does on and off the pitch!”

Sadly, Luis has been side-lined for the start of the new season through injury. “It was disappointing to miss the start of the season but it’s one of those things. I tried to rush back for the first game v Toronto but was far too early.”

“I’m now on my way back so hopefully not too much longer till I can be available for selection. It’s been a long time since my last game and as a player you always want to start the season especially when it’s against your rivals.”

“It’s my first real injury so it’s been a reminder to not take your time on the pitch for granted as once you can’t train or play it’s so frustrating but part of the game that I’ve learnt how to deal with slightly.”

The club has changed its’ name in the offseason, changed its’ kit and has a new coach. “The rebranding has gone down well with the squad,” Luis admitted, “everyone likes it and the meaning behind the badge and everything so that’s been good, but with change there is always going to be people who don’t like it, but I think with time and good results people will forget it.”

“Thierry Henry has left as coach and Wilf Nancy – his assistant from last year – has taken over. He was a defender and I know him well and built a relationship with him last year so that is good for me. He’s been at the club for a few years so has seen the change and knows all the dynamics of the club!”

“It’s a very, very different squad this year and there are a lot of new faces. A lot of players left last season, and we lost a lot of experience, but we have a lot of new younger players which is great as the energy and intensity is good in training.”

“It’s not been nice to miss the start of the season but like I said, it’s part of the game but one I hope I don’t have to do anytime soon. Especially this year as there is fans and I love playing in front of crowds as it’s extra motivation.”

“I’m hoping to be involved this week or next, but obviously that’s up to the manager and I need to train well, get my fitness levels up and go from there, but it’s not too far away now.”

We’ll be following Luis and Montreal’s progress throughout the summer…

and check out the MLS match coverage on SKY Sports and Free Sports…