Ex-Town striker Oliver should return for Gillingham against former club

Former Cobblers striker Vadaine Oliver should be fit enough to start for Gillingham against his old club this weekend.

The 29-year-old turned down Northampton's offer of a new contract last summer in favour of a two-year deal with Steve Evans at Priestfield.

The move has paid off handsomely for Oliver whose return of 18 goals this season - 15 in the league - has helped the Gills challenge for a play-off spot.

He missed Tuesday's shock win at Peterborough United with a groin problem but trained on Thursday morning.

“If it had been the last game of the season, he would have played against Peterborough," said Evans. "The plan was at one stage over the two games (against Oxford and Peterborough) for John Akinde to get a larger amount of time than Vadaine, they are both a handful.

“Vadaine felt it a little on the Monday and he said he would take some tablets and play but we said, ‘no you are not, you are out.’

"But he trained this morning and is ready for selection if he gets no reaction. Everyone has come through Peterborough really well and Vadaine coming back is another option for selection."