The challenge of facing another higher division side is one that midfielder Lewis Montrose is relishing, ahead of this weekend’s FA Cup second round game at Preston North End.

For Montrose, Saturday’s trip will be somewhat of a homecoming, as he ventures back toward his North West roots.

As a youngster, he supported Manchester City and started life as a professional on the books of Wigan Athletic.

Now he hopes to put one over a side who this season will be aiming for a position among the League 1 play-off contenders.

"It was a great achievement last season to make the third round but you want to keep trying to build on those experiences," said Montrose, recalling January’s match with Premier League Stoke last season.

"We got a big tie and those are the games you want to be testing yourself in against the big teams.

"We have got a good squad and it will be a good game up at Preston. Everyone involved in the club will be looking forward to the game."

Unlike recent seasons, Gills’ away form has been good, with only one league defeat and one loss in the JPT to their name.

"We have a great squad of players and it is a great achievement but we are not going to settle for that," said Montrose.

"We have to kick on and are not even halfway through the season yet. We need to keep improving and adding to our total.

"Everyone is in together. Everyone works hard for each other and everyone, whether you are playing or not, has a great attitude. That’s what you need for a successful squad."

Read the full interview in Friday's Medway Messenger newspaper.

Picture: Barry Goodwin