ECHOSPORT talks to Gillingham fan Matt Boosey ahead of today’s game at Roots Hall.

What have you made of the season so far?

“We started so well with back-to-back wins in our opening two games and even after the Sunderland defeat at the end of August their fans were telling us we would be play-off contenders.

“Sadly we suffered a horrendous winless run after that and although the form has picked up over the last month or two we still struggle for consistency.

"We have proved we can compete with the best, both wins over Pompey and thumping Fleetwood are testament to that, but until we can string a real run together we’ll continue to be about where we are.”

What are the hopes for the rest of the season?

“To simply add more consistency. Last season we were defensively solid under Steve Lovell but perhaps didn’t always score enough, whereas at the start of this campaign we were netting more but conceding far too many.

"Over the last 15 games we’ve won eight and lost only five by keeping six clean sheets - scoring 24 and conceding 17 - so the signs are positive.

"But our longest unbeaten run is still only four matches.”

Who is the main dangerman for Gills?

“The obvious one will be the division’s leading scorer Tom Eaves. He returned from injury on Saturday so will be chomping at the bit to get back among the goals and add to the 15 he already has.

"Josh Parker and Elliot List are also running into some decent form, so offensively I think we’ll cause you problems.”

What’s the team news for today’s game?

“Saturday was horrendous for us as we lost Dean Parrett (hamstring), Brandon Hanlan (head wound) and Barry Fuller (unsure) all to injury.

"And on top of that regular centre-back Max Ehmer is already out with a dislocated shoulder and Darren Oldaker picked up a knock at Charlton but may be fit.”

How has Luke O’Neill been playing?

“He was absolutely first class in his maiden campaign with us, to the point where many Gills fans were wondering how Southend had released him on a free.

"I had him as one of the best attacking full-backs in the division during 2017/18, but this season he has been more in and out in terms of form and being in the starting 11.”