Former manager Steve Lovell has been brought in by Gillingham to help manage to the team until a replacement for Steve Evans has been found.

Chairman Paul Scally has turned to the former Gills striker and manager to lead the side without a permanent appointment, whilst midfielder Alex MacDonald has been charged with supporting Lovell ahead of the next game against Burton Albion on Saturday.

A statement from The Gills issued on Monday afternoon reads:

“The Football Club can provide an update to its supporters ahead of Saturday’s game at home to Burton Albion.”

“The club can confirm that Chairman Paul Scally met with senior members of staff, and a number of senior players, at the stadium this morning at 0830 before addressing the entire squad at 0930 to discuss the week ahead.”

“There, it was unanimously agreed that the Chairman should try and bring someone in to help on a short-term basis, to run the game on Saturday, and everyone was happy for Steve Lovell to come in and offer his support.”

“He met the team at the training ground, and he will assist as much as he can while a permanent replacement is found.”

“Steve will be assisted by Alex MacDonald; they will prepare the team ahead of Saturday’s visit of Burton Albion.”

Bringing Lovell back to Priestfield will come to a shock to many Gillingham fans after he was sacked with Evans having replaced him.

Former Gills midfielder Neil Smith had been tipped to take over from Evans, but KSN understands the former Bromley manager turned down the chance to become the latest manager at Priestfield.