Gillingham defender Barry Fuller has been ruled out for the rest of the season after being told to have a career-saving knee operation.

Fuller has been struggling with a knee injury which was aggravated during the 6-1 win at Hereford last month.

The 27-year-old had initially hoped to make a swift return to the Gills side but he saw a specialist earlier this week after still suffering discomfort.

"The knee’s been a problem for him," said Hessenthaler, "And quite how he’s been playing in games, I don’t know.

"He’s been to see the best knee doctor who told him he needs an operation straight away. If he was to carry on playing like he is, the injury would be career threatening."

Hessenthaler added: "It’s devastating news for Baz because he’s in the same sort of mould as me in that he just wants to get on and play.

"But he’s quite upbeat because he’s been reassured that if he gets the treatment he needs, his career can continue."

Meanwhile, the Gills are set to extend striker Frank Nouble's loan deal for a further month when his initial deal expires at the weekend.

Picture: Barry Goodwin