Mikael Mandron has returned to Gillingham on a permanent deal.

The 27-year-old played 23 league games for the Gills during the 2019/20 season that was cut short because of the Covid pandemic.

• Departed front-man finds new club

He netted twice against Sunderland in what turned out to be Gills’ last game of that season, a 2-2 draw in March 2020.

Mandron left the Gills after that one season and has spent the last two years at Crewe Alexandra.

On his return to the club, Mandron said: ""I am buzzing to be back, I can't wait to get started."

Gillingham have a behind closed doors friendly on Wednesday which he could be involved in.

The former Sunderland striker netted five league goals in 13 starts during his time at the Gills, with another 10 appearances off the bench.

He netted another 18 in the league over the past two seasons at Gresty Road but missed several months last season after picking up an injury, ironically at Priestfield.

Crewe were keen to keep the forward and said they tried "everything in their power" to keep him. He played alongside Scott Kashket last season, who also left the League 2 side this summer to join the Gills.

Gillingham have been in need of a target-man following the departure of Vadaine Oliver.