RONNIE JEPSON believes Gillingham are in their best form of the season as they prepare to do battle with Town.

Results certainly suggest so, with successive victories against Brentford, Swansea and MK Dons taking them to 50-points and the brink of safety, ninth from bottom.

"The squad is coming together, although I wish it had done so a couple of months ago when we had unbelievable injuries and suspensions," said Jepson.

"The lads who are on the bench at the moment could be sulking, but they are not - instead they're staying positive for the team which is really refreshing.

"No-one is an automatic first choice, it's all to do with who's got the shirt and performing at the time.

"We have got competition for places now and those currently out of the side are well aware that they'll have to work hard to get their place back.

"Competition for places strengthens my hand as it gives me options."

On Town, Jepson added: "Peter Jackson and Terry Yorath are doing a fantastic job and are having a great season with a talented young squad.

"It doesn't happen overnight, but they are reaping the rewards at the moment.

"They have the lad Andy Booth up front, too.

"I used to play alongside him and we will have to watch him.

"We will have to be up for it - but if we are, like we have been in the last three games, then it should be a good game of football."