Young defender Elliott Hewitt could carve out a role as a midfielder at Ipswich Town next season, according to Gillingham manager Peter Taylor.

Wales Under-21 international Hewitt, predominantly a right-back, played 20 times for the League One club last season, helping the Kent outfit to third tier safety.

Hewitt began last season in McCarthy’s first-choice XI but soon lost his place to Luke Chambers and was eventually farmed out to Priestfield, impressing Taylor with his versatility.

“Elliott had a spell in midfield and he seemed to really enjoy it,” said Taylor, who was caretaker manager of England for one game in 2000.

“He wanted to get forward with or without the ball and looked like he relished that side of the game.

“He did not have to worry about being in a one-on-one situation and all of a sudden he had that freedom and a licence to get forward.

“I have a terrific relationship with Ipswich and I kept in touch with Mick McCarthy on a regular basis, so he will know all about what Elliott did with us.”

Meanwhile, Taylor also sang the praise of young Blues striker Jack Marriott, who in between prolific spells at Skrill Premier Division team Woking, spent a month on-loan with Taylor’s team.

Unfortunately for the 19-year-old, he made just one appearance off the bench for the Gills with the team embroiled in a fight to retain their League One status, but departed with a glowing reference from the former Leicester City manager.

“I was disappointed to see Jack (Marriott) leave but I totally respected his decision,” Taylor said.

“We could not do anything more at that time for Jack and it was refreshing to see a young player want to go to the Conference and play 90 minutes for Woking rather than come on as a substitute for a few minutes.”

“He came on as a sub in his only game for us and nearly scored twice in five minutes and he is certainly an exciting talent.”