GILLINGHAM defender Chris Hope believes the club are emerging from the doldrums and that the atmosphere behind the scenes is the best it has been for years.

He said: "We have been down in the doldrums for a couple of years, but Ronnie’s come in and told us it’s no good to make excuses.

"The gaffer’s got to take credit as he has everyone pulling together so the spirit’s great. Different managers have different ways of getting their ideas across.

"I felt sorry for Neale Cooper because he was a great fellow and he gave his all but unfortunately it didn’t work out.

"Ronnie is a very straight talking bloke so you know, whether you’re an experienced pro or a 16-year-old lad, that if you don’t do well you won’t play.

"That means everyone feels they have a chance to make the team so training is buzzing."

Back in the team for the first time in 10 weeks last weekend, after coming on for the injured Ian Cox in the 1-1 draw at Chesterfield, Hope is delighted to be back playing and hopes that he can earn another contract.

He said: "People always say I bet you can’t wait to go back up north, but nothing could be further from the truth.

"Yes, my family is up there but my immediate family is down here and we’re settled and love the area.

"If I had to leave Gillingham it would be a real wrench as everyone at the club has always been brilliant.

"But I’m a realist. I know the sizes of squads are getting smaller and recently a lot of the older players have moved on, but hopefully that won’t be me."