As Max Ehmer approaches another career milestone for the club, the Gillingham central defender has been talking to KSN ahead of the weekend’s game at Priestfield against Tranmere Rovers.

The German born defender, who has made 294 appearances for the club, has had a “few” partners in the heart of the Gills back line this season – a fact that hasn’t deterred him at all as he explained, “I have had more partners in the past. I think it was the season that Chris Herd was here and Ady Pennock was manager.”

“It is better to be in a settled back four or back five, but I think the times that I’ve played next to Will (Wright) and Conner (Masterson) they are similar so the difference isn’t huge.”

“And at the end of the day, I think that I’ve played enough with both of them now to be able to adjust my game there and then. They are both good players whether we’re in a five or a four as we’re all pushing each other to make sure that we’re all doing better and be the name on the scoresheet.”

Whilst Ehmer has appeared in more than forty of the Gills games this season, keeper Glenn Morris has appeared in thirty – forming a solid partnership at the back for Neil Harris’ side – something that is not lost on Ehmer.

“I think it does make a difference as the teams that do well throughout the Leagues have always got as many settled players as possible. I think that’s just how it is, but with “Cat” behind us – he may not be the most vocal, but he’s one who leads by actions as the amount of saves he makes speak for itself!”

“For a man of his age, I don’t know how he gets down to some of them!” Ehmer added smiling.

“He’s been outstanding for us this year and long may it continue.”

Tranmere Rovers arrive at Priestfield looking for a double over the Gills after the 3-0 win on the Wirral earlier in the season – a game that many believe is the worst League display of the season.

“We definitely have a wrong to put right,” Ehmer said.

“But we’re a new look side now and touch wood a performance like that doesn’t happen again, ever again! It’s a game we’re definitely looking to go out and win – the confidence we have now as opposed to back then is a lot different. We have a lot more leaders and men in the team.”

We ended by asking Ehmer about his little ritual he goes through before every game – kneeling on the edge of the penalty area and looking skywards.

“I do say a little prayer,” he confessed, “and then I retie my laces on my boots. It’s a superstition that I’ve done for years, and it won’t change!”

Hopefully someone will be listening to the central defender’s words on Saturday as the Gills look to win their fifth home game out of six in 2023 as hopefully the climb from the relegation places continues.