GILLINGHAM defender Garry Richards has revealed the anguish that has plagued him since picking up a red card at Brighton at the beginning of the month.

Richards, who signed in the January transfer window, saw red in Gillingham’s 4-2 defeat at Withdean on March 4 and subsequently received a three-match ban.

And with the former Southend man absent from the Gills rearguard, Mark Stimson’s side have suffered three straight defeats, shipping nine goals in the process.

“Of course it’s been a very disappointing and frustrating time for me,” admitted the 21-year-old, who is itching to return to the side for Saturday’s home game against Bournemouth.

“There’s nothing worse for a player than sitting in the stands, especially when the team is struggling.

“I’m paid to try to keep the opposition from scoring goals and it’s not easy watching them go in from the sidelines - I’m desperate to get back into the team to help us tighten things up.”

Full interview in Friday's Medway Messenger