Peter Taylor believes Andy Hessenthaler is the “perfect fit” to be his number two.

The Gillingham manager unveiled his new assistant on Thursday morning.

Taylor said: “Andy loves this football club, he has done brilliant at this football club before and I am sure that will carry on.

“I have known him for a long time and he knows a lot of the staff here. To me it is the perfect fit.”

Hessenthaler worked as player-coach for Taylor during the 1999/2000 season. They have also been together at Dartford, Watford and Hull City.

“We have known each other a long, long time and we totally trust each other,” said Taylor.

“He is still local and that’s the main thing for me.”

Lincoln-based John Schofield was assistant last season, having stayed on following the departure of Martin Allen.

And Taylor was keen to acknowledge Schofield’s efforts.

“John Schofield was first class, an absolute first class assistant manager,” said Taylor.

“I made that change because of nothing John did wrong. I want to make sure that point is clear but Andy is local and I think this will work. That’s why I have gone down that route.”

“There are lots of reasons why I am interested in Andy coming back here but a lot of them is to do with what he has been doing.

“He has been watching a lot of players (as a scout for Burnley), he knows this football club inside out, he knows me and he knows a lot of the players here. I can’t see there being any negatives whatsoever.

“I am sure he will come back here and do exceptionally well but we know we need to recruit the right players and we will be looking to start well.

“Andy’s knowledge of football is right up there, that’s the most important thing and I know I can talk to him about training sessions and we will be on the same wavelength.”

Two players have already signed. Goalkeeper Glenn Morris has joined from Aldershot and outfield player Aaron Morris has signed from AFC Wimbledon.

A lot more are expected to follow.

“We are very active and we are talking to a lot of people,” said the Gills boss.

“We are not resting, we are not on holiday, that is for certain.”

Further announcements regarding the backroom staff are expected soon.