YOUNG GILLS DEFENDERS TO FACE THE BULLS?
FRIDAY 3 February 2012
Providing the weather allows the game to go ahead, Gills manager Andy Hessenthaler could be set to make changes to the Gills defensive line-up for the home fixture against Hereford United this coming Saturday.
There are a number of concerns within the squad that has prompted the Gills boss, after his period of indecision, to recall young defenders Connor Essam (top) and Jack Evans (bottom) from their loan spells at Dartford and Welling respectively.
Darts manager, Tony Burman confirmed late on Thursday that due to a ‘growing injury crisis’ at Gillingham FC, Connor Essam will be called back to the Club with immediate effect. Tony also thanked young Connor for his contributions at Dartford and wished him the very best for the future.
Andy Hess commented on the official site, "Simon King won't be available. We've had to look after him this week; he needs two injections in his ankle that he needs to be able to carry on for the rest of the season. Jack Payne is also doubtful.”
Hess continued, “Matt Lawrence is fresh after resting him so he comes back into contention. He's played a lot of games and 37 years old but he'll keep going because he's a fit lad.”
With niggling injury and illness of several other first-team players for the Bulls game, the two recalled teenagers could both go straight into the squad although whether they start is another matter. Andy Hess has experience over youth available as both captain Andy Frampton and Garry Richards are in contention to start the game.
Last week Andy Hess watched Connor in the Staines v Darts fixture where the young centre back performed well and scored. It was thought that Hess would have recalled Connor for the trip to Accrington but the Gills manager decided against - a decision that was to the Darts advantage as they hammered Thurrock in their next game and Conner was voted Man of the Match.
19-year-old Essam has yet to make a first team appearance but on recent form is undoubtedly ready for his chance while Jack Evans, who can play at fullback or in midfield, has already made his senior debut, from the substitute’s bench, against Torquay.
Following the disappointing home defeat against AFC Wimbledon Hess stated, “Very shocked and disappointed like I’m sure everyone else is. We’ve shown we can’t defend, so do I need to do something about it defensively? Yes I think I do.”
Directly after the Accrington loss Hess spoke to BBC Radio Kent saying, “We need to do something about it quickly and it's down to me to do that”.
The Gills manager has to make things happen to get Gills back into promotion contention - starting with a possible goalie change, a strong mobile defence and an overall team performance that will fashion a convincing win over Hereford.