GILLINGHAM'S Mark Patterson and Mark Saunders could be heading back to their former club, Plymouth.

After a close-season of speculation linking the pair with a return to Home Park, West Country sources have confirmed that manager Paul Sturrock wants them to bolster a side that has leaked five goals in their opening two league games.

Two months ago, defender Patterson was thought to be heading back to Plymouth as replacement for Jon Beswetherick following his move to Sheffield Wednesday.

Midfielder Saunders, who is playing on monthly contracts for Gillingham, is desperate for security for his wife and baby son, and would welcome any offer of a long-term deal. Patterson has a year of his existing agreement remaining but faces the prospect of playing second fiddle to in-form Nyron Nosworthy.

Plymouth assistant manager Kevin Summerfield was due at Colchester yesterday to assess their form with a view to a double signing.

Patterson joined Gillingham from Plymouth in October, 1997 for a tribunal fixed £45,000. Saunders followed on a Bosman free in June 1998.