Midfielder Justin Cochrane will return to Crewe Alexandra next week after Gillingham confirmed that they will not be extending his loan spell at the Priestfield Stadium.

The 24-year-old former Hayes FC man has spent the past couple of months on loan with the League One strugglers, making five appearances for the Kent club and scoring one goal.

However, a bout of ill health saw him drop out of the first team recently, and with the likes of Alan Pouton back in the Gills midfield, manager Ronnie Hepson has opted not to extend the Hackney born players stay.

"Unfortunately he was poorly with food poisoning and we had three wins on the spin. It's difficult to change a team when that happens." Jepson said

"I'd like to thank Justin for his services, not just on the pitch but off the pitch as well because he's a decent character."

As well as returning to training with the Railwaymen next week, Cochrane will be available for the trip to Crystal Palace a week on Saturday.