Gillingham manager Gareth Ainsworth stands by his decision to leave Shrewsbury for Priestfield as family comes first

Gareth Ainsworth put family first when he left Shrewsbury for Gillingham - and enjoyed a winning return on Saturday.

Ainsworth took some stick from fans on his latest trip back to the Croud Meadow but stood by his decision to leave them for Gillingham.

It was his second return to Shrewsbury since taking over as manager of the Gills in March 2025.

The first return ended in a 3-3 draw, with a late equaliser earning the Gills a point, and another late goal on Saturday secured them a 2-1 win.

Ainsworth had a short spell as manager of Shrewsbury in the 2024/25 season, taking over a club at the bottom of League 1. He took charge for 22 games before being tempted away by Gillingham and the prospect of moving closer to home.

“I had some really good times at Shrewsbury,” he said.

“We had some cracking wins when I was manager but coming back and showing what I can do with my [current] team is nice as well.”

Ainsworth took a bit of flak, although nothing over the top, and he insists he has plenty of love for the club and the area.

He said: “Their [fans are] good. They understand it. If anyone wants to begrudge me going home and being with my wife and three children rather than… that's where I want to be. I'm a family guy.

“Back when I was younger, you could have tempted me up here, and I'd be out every night.

“I'm too old now. I like being at home with my kids and my missus. That was the big reason I went back down south.

“It's a long way from anywhere, a beautiful place, beautiful town. And I hope they do really well in the league because I do love this place. But I love Gillingham as well. I'm really pleased with that win.”