George Lapslie is relishing the new season at MEMS Priestfield after remaining in Kent through the transfer window. 

The midfielder, who is still on the transfer list, has been talking to KSN ahead of the weekend’s trip to Nottingham to face leaders Notts County at Meadow Lane and admitted that he is more than happy to still be wearing Gillingham blue. 

“A lot of the others were surprised when it was announced that I was on the list,” Lapslie admitted.

“But that is football, and I am sure whoever was listed would have been surprised, because as individuals, we all know each other’s qualities and what we can bring to the table.

“It was not really frustrating during the summer as the Club and I were in total dialogue, there was nothing going on behind closed doors, it was this is what it is, you take the contract, or you do not sort of thing.

“If I had had something to go to then we would have taken it from there, but there was no real frustration on my part as it was all very transparent with what was going on.” 

“But in my mind after a long conversation with Joe (Comper the Gills Managing Director), I knew that I was still going to be here this season, so I didn’t let it wind me up in any way, as in my mind, I was already playing for Gillingham this season.” 

Recalling his first face-to-face meeting with new boss Mark Bonner, Lapslie told us, “I was not nervous as we had had texts prior to the meeting; I had spoken to a lot of people who had worked with him, so I knew that he was a top man, there was no real nervousness going in.

“I had been with Anthony Hayes (the Gills number two) at Charlton as well, so I knew there would not be a problem meeting the Gaffer. I think that the coaching staff, the Club, and I have all handled the situation the best way we could and are just now moving forward.” 

Lapslie then admitted that he had been surprised by the supporter’s reaction and the love shown to him after it was announced that the midfielder had been placed on the transfer list.

“They have been brilliant, especially at the open training day as I do feel as though I have not hit my potential here that I can in a Gillingham shirt. So, to hear their support that day, it really has motivated me to stick at it. I know that I am a good player, and I am going to keep my head down and playing hopefully in the weeks to come!” 

Image courtesy of Gillingham FC