Gillingham striker Ronan Hale hopes he will benefit from an extended summer break, family catch-ups and last season’s taste of League Two

Ronan Hale is confident he will have more to give after a much-needed summer break and a full pre-season behind him.

The Northern Ireland striker had the upheaval of a move from the Scottish Highlands to Gillingham in January and soon after his switch had to deal with the devastating news that his grandfather had passed away - a man he had looked up to and been inspired by.

Hale joined a struggling Gills team but still managed to stand out positively, and fans will hope he can flourish in the campaign ahead.

“I finished with 17 goals and, obviously, I wish it were a bit more, but it was a long season,” said Hale.

“We went straight into the play-off final [at the end of the previous season] and then I was away for 10 days with Northern Ireland. I had a two-week break and was straight back into the cup games with Ross County.

“It’s been a full year of football, but you wouldn’t change it. That’s the way you want it to be and now we’re back at pre-season again, ready to go.

“I do [feel more refreshed]. We were a long way off the play-offs when I came in and it was a good icebreaker for me to get myself used to the league.

“I scored a few goals, and I wish it was a bit more, but I’m coming into this season knowing what the league is about and I’m ready to rock.

“With a full pre-season behind me with the team, I am confident I can add a lot more to help push us up the table.”

Hale had the chance to return to Belfast to reconnect with family after months away and recently returned to England to get settled again with his family ahead of the new season.

Gillingham’s players are due back for pre-season training next Thursday.

“It was a tough transition for me and my family,” Hale admitted, having switched clubs mid-season.

“I