Gills have suffered a major blow with the news that striker Adam Birchall has suffered damage to his cruciate knee ligament.

Birchall is now facing a lengthy spell on the sidelines, with boss Andy Hessenthaler fearing he will lose the former Dover man for months.

Birchall was stretchered off in Tuesday night’s 3-0 friendly win at Welling after twisting his knee and Hessenthaler had hoped the injury would not keep his star man out of the start of the season.

But he said today: "We've had the results back from Adam's scan and unfortunately it's not good news. He's damaged his cruciate knee ligament and it looks like he's going to need an operation.

"It's a bitter blow for the lad, and it's not good news for us either because he is such an important part of our plans.

"We have seen glimpses of what Adam can bring to the side in the pre-season matches he has played so far."

Meanwhile Gillingham continue their pre-season campaign at home to Millwall on Saturday, kick-off 1pm.

Matt Lawrence could return to the Gills squad after picking up a knee injury in training which ruled him out of Tuesday’s trip to Welling.

Striker Stefan Payne (groin) will also be hopeful of returning while Chris Whelpdale (dead leg) will be hoping to play some part.

How big a loss will Birchall be? Have your say below.