Gillingham are remaining tight-lipped over which way they’re heading now, following Steve Lovell’s exit.

The manager was relieved of his duties less than 24 hours before Gills’ penultimate game of the season against Charlton.

Chairman Paul Scally declined to comment on the situation this week when approached by the Messenger.

Out-of-work boss Steve Evans looked to be the frontrunner to replace Lovell but his appointment could be a controversial one, with 73% of fans last week saying they didn’t want him to be manager when quizzed in an online poll on KentOnline.

Evans has had plenty of success as manager, most notably with Rotherham United, who he took from League 2 to the Championship.

• Rees: Manager departure a harsh reality
• Patterson: Time is of the essence
• Lovell: A productive season

His most recent job was at Gills' fellow League 1 side Peterborough United, but Evans was sacked by them in January despite being in the play-off places. The Scot had taken Posh to the top of the table at the start of the season.

He was odds-on with bookmakers to take over at Priestfield but Evans’ long-time assistant Paul Raynor has now been installed as the odds-on favourite to become Gillingham boss.

Shaun Derry, meanwhile, announced on Tuesday his intention to leave Oxford’s coaching staff at the end of the season, to “explore new opportunities”. His friendship with former Gills boss Justin Edinburgh may or may no help his chances.

Lovell was axed following a meeting with Mr Scally on Friday, the details of which haven’t been revealed. But it is understood the discussion centred around the club’s plans going forward, following a season where the Gills narrowly avoided being dragged into a relegation scrap.

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