Gillingham v Leyton Orient EFL Trophy preview and team news

A midweek EFL Trophy match could be just the occasion for some of Gillingham’s players to find some form.

That’s the hope from Gillingham manager Neil Harris as he looks to make the most from a fixture that is way down on his priority list.

The Gills play the first of three group stage matches in the Trophy, up against League 1 Leyton Orient at Priestfield tonight (Tuesday, 7pm).

Looking ahead to the fixture, Harris said: “It might be an opportunity to rest a few, to give minutes to few, but it is also an opportunity for players to find a bit of form as well, players that need match minutes and form, might need a goal, it’s a great opportunity for them.”

The Gills are in a group that also includes Fulham under-21s and Portsmouth. Those two sides have already met, with Pompey claiming an extra point with a win on penalties after a 3-3 draw.

Orient have found life tough in League 1 since winning promotion last season as League 2 champions. Their only success to date is a 2-0 win over Cambridge United.

Harris’ men started the season with four straight wins in the league and a Carabao Cup win over Southampton but have struggled since. The weekend defeat at Grimsby was the low point so far.

Midfielder George Lapslie could feature. Harris is hoping he’ll be available again after injury.

“I was majorly disappointed he wasn’t there on Saturday,” said the Gills boss. “I will be majorly disappointed if he hasn’t made himself available (tonight), then we are back to Saturday. Hopefully, he is back for Saturday at the latest.”

On his other injured player, Harris said: “Hawkins saw a specialist on Friday with his foot injury and it was positive, after fearing the worst, but still no definite date as to when he will be ready.”

Tom