Josh Gowling returns from a two-game suspension this weekend insisting he’s the man to fill the void in Gillingham’s defence.

Darren Dennehy’s loan period ended last weekend and now the Gills need someone to cover the left-sided central defensive position.

Gowling (pictured) has had a stop-start season, with injuries and suspensions hampering his progress, but with 34 appearances behind him, he’s now ready to help lead the Gills to safety.

He said: "I’ve played a lot this season and so the gaffer already knows what I can do. I’ve been itching to get back out there and play.

"I was out for three or four weeks with a hamstring and then when I came back in I got sent off unfortunately.

"I see myself as being one of the club’s number one centre-halves and so if there is a chance, I expect to play.

"I want to get back into the team and let the gaffer know that I am here and ready for next season because I want to be the club’s main centre-half.

"I’m not the kind of pro who is just happy to sit on the bench and collect my wages.

"I want to come in against Southampton, do well and make sure there is no way the gaffer can leave me out for the Wycombe game.

"Concentration will be key on Saturday and you know that just one lapse in concentration and they could put the ball in the back of the net. If we win and everyone else loses then the league is done and dusted and we’ll be safe."