By Andrew Gidley

Gillingham take on Crawley on Tuesday night in the first round of the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy with manager Martin Allen looking to improve on his poor record in the competition.

Allen (pictured) intends fielding a strong side for the tie at the Broadfield Stadium but says the nine-month league campaign is his biggest priority, with Gills’ next game at his old club Barnet this Saturday.

Gills face a tough task against newly-promoted League 1 Crawley, now managed by Richie Barker, who saw his sde knock Bolton out of the Capital One Cup last week.

The Gills went out at home to Barnet in round two of the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy last season.

Rules don’t allow wholesale changes, but Allen said: "Every game is important and I will play a good team. But we have got a good squad and they have all played in a winning team. It will be foolish if I didn’t give players opportunities.

"It’s a good one to be involved with and try and win, but I have never got past the first round myself. I have rested people in the past, and then been to Wembley for the final, and seen what a fantastic day out it is."

What importance do you think Gillingham should give to progress in the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy this season? Have your say below.