By Kevin Redsull

Dover Athletic chairman Jim Parmenter is refusing to give Gillingham counterpart Paul Scally permission to talk to Andy Hessenthaler about the managerial vacancy at Priestfield until the clubs have agreed a compensation package.

Whites boss Hessenthaler, who managed the Gills between 2000 and 2004, confirmed on Monday he had received a message from Mr Scally saying that the Gillingham chairman would like to talk to him.

But Mr Parmenter (pictured), who brought Hessenthaler to Crabble three years ago, said on Tuesday morning: "I spoke to Mr Scally yesterday and told him I wouldn't stand in Andy's way because we have a gentlemen's agreement over his returning to League management if he gets the chance.

"But Mr Scally has to understand that Andy is still under contract here, and before I give him permission to speak to Andy we have to agree a compensation package should he decide to employ him as manager of Gillingham."

Hessenthaler, who led Dover to successive Ryman League promotions plus runners-up spot in Blue Square South in his three years at Crabble, has refused to rule out a return to Priestfield but stated he would not submit an application for the job.