Aaron Morris has started his recovery after an operation on his knee.

The 27-year-old midfielder suffered a setback in pre-season training after missing the whole of last season with knee ligament damage.

Boss Ady Pennock is hoping the latest operation, which took place on Tuesday, will mean the player can make a return to Gills’ first team.

Pennock said: “He had a big operation and we wish him all the best. He is a top lad and we hope he has a speedy recovery.

“Tuesday was the first day of recovery and let’s hope that we can get him back as soon as possible.

“Aaron Morris is a top, top man. We are not giving up, I will never give up on him.

“We have a great physio here in Gary Hemens, Aaron has had a good surgeon and we have to look after him.

“We hope to be able to get him back before the end of the season. There isn’t a time limit but that’s what we hope.”

Gills look set to be able to welcome Bradley Garmston back to training soon. He was out on the pitch at Wimbledon in midweek with the club’s fitness coach.

“It was good to see Garms having a bit of a warm-up,” added Pennock.

“I am not saying he will be ready for Saturday (against Charlton) but hopefully in a few weeks he will be joining in. He has just come back running and we have to be sensible with that.”

Pennock is hopeful that Billy Bingham can return on Saturday following his recent absence through concussion. Striker Liam Nash should also be back after tonsillitis.