Gillingham manager Mark Stimson hailed a "first-class effort" from his players as they began proper pre-season training on Tuesday.The majority of the Gills squad have been in for voluntary sessions throughout the last month, but the hard work starts now for Stimson's men as they look to mount a promotion push.

And Stimson told the club's official website: "It was our first day back and it was very pleasing to see everyone. It was very, very hot but all the boys have been tested and I'm very happy with how things have gone.

"Danny Ellis has put some tests together to assess the players and all the boys put in a first-class effort.

"It was all about testing, plenty of running, the bleep test, the jumping test and some sprint tests, but the boys have been told the good news that it's all football from now on."

Meanwhile, Bury have announced they will sign centre-back Efe Sodje - released by the Gills on Tuesday - on a two-year contract which will also see him take on some coaching responsibility.

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