by Andrew Gidley

Danny Jackman insists the Gillingham squad are already feeling the rewards of a hectic pre-season training regime.

Even Martin Allen believes a few eyebrows might have been raised after he introduced three sessions a day in a raft of other ideas and initiatives, when he arrived at the club. and Jackman admitted: "The early days were tough mentally and physically.

"We want to hit the ground running though, and it will also pay off later in the season as well. All the lads have bought into it, have lost weight, body fat is down, and hopefully all the work we have done, will transmit itself out on the pitch."

Jackman (pictured) was detailed to mark the dangerous Alfred Adoma against Bristol City in midweek and enjoyed the challenge playing at left back rather than his favoured midfield role.

He said: " I didn't know too much about him, but the gaffer told me he was quick, so we were wary of his threat. I am comfortable anywhere really, I'd like to play in midfield, it's where I did the majority of my good work last season, but it's more about the team than me.

"I will leave it up to the gaffer, and sees what he decides. He keeps us on our toes, and we can't switch-off at any moment in games."

Jackman was impressed with new boy Tom Flanagan against Bristol City. He said: "We haven't had too much game-time with him, so it was our first look.

"What he had to do, he did very well and was involved in the second goal. Sometimes you feel 'what the hell is a defender doing up there', but it paid off, and I am sure he will be looking forward to weighing in with a few goals.

"We are judged as a defensive unit, and although we were disappointed to let in the goal, I think we did well.

"It was a great start to the season, but Bradford on Saturday is the most important thing now."

How do you think Jackman did in his unfamiliar role? Have your say below.