For as the new Gills boss walks down the Priestfield touch line as manager for the first time, his newly appointed skipper will lead the side into a home game for the first time as well.Central defender Max Ehmer has spoken this week of his feelings at being handed the skipper armband by the new boss.

“Every Gafffer is different,” Max admitted, “but he knows what it’s like to skipper from centre half as he was one himself.  You can see the whole pitch from there – you’re the heart of the team.”

When asked about the frustration at Tuesday’s game with AFC Wimbledon being called off, he said, “we can’t wait to get out there on Saturday.  We all know how much it will mean to the Gaffer and I must admit that it’ll be very special for me too as it will be the first time that I led the side out at Priestfield.  It’s a special place and the supporters are great – they’re amazing.”

“I’ve led the team out at Oldham and Sheffield so far and the backing from the supporters was great but to do it on Saturday really will be something else.  We’ve been working hard all week and just now have to see what happens on Saturday, but with their backing we’ll be OK!”