Hope hoping for a new deal

Last updated : 10 February 2006 By Simon Head

Hope: Looking for a new contract

Hope, who started the season as the club captain, joined the club as a highly-rated centre half, and his consistent performances were a major factor behind the club's superb form in the Championship.

But in recent seasons Hope's form has fluctuated somewhat - and his position in the team as one of the automatic choices at centre half has now been threatened.

The form of Ian Cox and Leon Johnson, plus the arrival of Brent Sancho, have led many fans to suggest that Hope is no longer a first-team cert.

In recent weeks Hope has been linked with a possible move from Priestfield, with his former club Scunthorpe United one of the suggested destinations.

But after his extended spell on the sidelines, Hope is hopeful that he can secure his place in the centre of defence and earn a new deal at the end of the season.

Talking to the KM, 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."