There were two different managers at Priestfield last season and the instability translated onto the pitch. Both Andy Hessenthaler and Stan Ternant falied to get the best out of the side.
But The Gills should be a different prospect this season and manager Cooper has already proven with reaching the play-off in his two seasons at Hartlepool what a good manager he is.
Following the departure of skipper Paul Smith, more responsibility will lie on the shoulders of the likes of ex-Iron captain Chris Hope (who we see return to Glanford Park on Saturday) and veteran centre-back Ian Cox, formerly of Burnley.
Chairman Paul Scally is one of the most outspoken in the football league and he will be hoping his investment in Cooper has paid off, Gillingham seem a solid side and with the right additions before the beginning of the season the Gills could push for promotion.
There have only been four investments at the time of writing and goalkeeper Tony Bullock, who is a former Iron trialist, should provide a bit of stability in the backline once fit. Paul Shields will add to the attacking options, whilst Danny Jackman and Tom Williams will boost the numbers in the squad.
Striker Tommy Johnson will be hoping to put one over one of his former clubs on Saturday.
There are strong sides throughout the League and Gillingham are one of them. A play-off push is very likely from the Kent outfit.