Josh Wright has signed a new two year deal with Gillingham.

The 26-year-old midfielder was a key player for the Gills last season and one boss Justin Edinburgh was determined to retain.

Wright has spent most of the off-season on holiday but Edinburgh and Gills chairman Paul Scally were in constant dialogue over a new deal, which has now been completed.

Midfielder Wright played 41 league games for the Gills last season and also captained the side when John Egan and Doug Loft were absent.

He initially joined the Gills to keep fit a year ago after struggling to find a club in England but when the season started, Justin Edinburgh handed Wright a lifeline, naming him on the bench in the season opener against Sheffield United.

Wright was originally playing on a non-contract deal, on a bonus schedule with no pay, before his efforts were rewarded with a permanent deal in September for the remainder of the season.

His performances throughout the 2015/16 campaign, along with his attitude, thrilled Edinburgh and the fans.

The Gills boss said: “He was outstanding, not only on the pitch but off it. He’s an immaculate pro and you can’t get enough of Josh. You can’t get enough of his character and as a player.

“We got 41 games out of someone who came for nothing at the start of the season. That just shows how quickly things can turn around. At the time I didn’t envisage there being a place for him here, I thought we were good in that area.

“Doug Loft and Aaron Morris got injured and he found himself on the bench. He went about his work, got in the team and ended up captaining the side for periods and getting awards. If you are a dedicated professional, like he is, with that attitude and desire, you can quickly turn it around.

“Credit to him; to have come here and offer his duties and finish the season being offered a new deal is fantastic.”

The Gills are yet to choose their new captain. Could Wright be that man?