James Russell has returned to Gillingham Football Club as first-team fitness coach.

Russell arrived at MEMS Priestfield Stadium for his first spell in the summer of 2012 and enjoyed a successful opening campaign as the Gills clinched the League Two Championship.

James remained in place for the 2013-14 season but left the club in November 2014. Russell will now work closely with first-team physiotherapist Gary Hemens and the management staff to further improve the fitness and sports science procedures.

On returning to Gillingham James said: “I’m delighted to be home. I thoroughly enjoyed my time here during my first stint and am really looking forward to the challenges that lie ahead.

“Everyone has made me feel very welcome and I can’t wait to get started.”