The challenge is on for Gillingham to reach the League 1 play-offs.

Ady Pennock and his new coaching team began work last week with hopes of making a renewed bid for a top-six finish.

Gills chairman Paul Scally believes it’s a task that can be achieved and new boss Pennock will be doing all he can to make it happen.

Mr Scally said: “We have 21 games to go and if you have the right mentality then anything is possible.

“We certainly have the quality in the squad and if you have organisation and the players know what they are playing then we have half a chance.

“I think this season the play-off points are going to be lower, the lowest in the last three years have been 69, I think it will be about 67-68, because of the type of division we are in.”

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It means the Gills must gain another 40 points from their remaining games having amassed only 30 so far.

“It is certainly a goal,” added Mr Scally, while newly-appointed head coach Pennock will certainly be trying his best.

“It will be a tough ask but why not?” said Pennock.

“We want to hit the road running, if we can get some results and get on a run straight away, then you never know what is going to happen. You never say never.

“We haven’t given up yet and it is 10 points (away at the moment). Who is to say we can’t get into those play-offs? There is a lot to do from now until the Oldham game (on Saturday) but they will be organised, they will be fitter and they will be enjoying their football.

“We are fortunate that there is a good squad here, some good individuals. We have to get them working as a team and working hard. That is working hard on and off the pitch. We aren’t giving up on anything at the moment.”