Andrew Crofts has made a surprise return to Gillingham.

The former Gills youth player and captain has played for Brighton and Norwich since leaving Gillingham in 2009.

Crofts joins on loan until the end of the season.

He was named in Gills' starting line-up to face Southend on Saturday.

Boss Justin Edinburgh was in need of an extra body, with a number of injuries to key men, including captain Doug Loft.

Crofts played 174 league games for the club after progressing from the youth set-up.

Albion manager Chris Hughton said: “Crofty’s game time has been limited in recent weeks.

“This loan move gives him the opportunity to get in some valuable playing time before the end of the season.”

Chatham-born Crofts has recently been recalled to the Wales team. Injuries have blighted the midfielder in recent times, with two serious knee injuries.

He has made 27 international appearances, his last in September 2013, and will miss Gills' trip to Bury on Easter Monday.