Chris Whelpdale celebrates his first goal of the game against Swindon

by Luke Cawdell

Gillingham manager Andy Hessenthaler believes Chris Whelpdale has blossomed as the weight of expectation has diminished.

The midfielder arrived as one of two high-profile summer signings from Peterborough.

Whelpdale, along with Charlie Lee, had performed well during a previous loan spell and much was expected of the pair.

For Whelpdale, it was a slow start, but he hit his 12th goal of the season on Saturday and Hessenthaler is delighted with the way he is now performing.

"It’s a fantastic goal return," said Hessenthaler. "He has got better as it has gone along.

"Initially when he came in maybe the expectation levels were on him, coming from Peterborough and what he did on loan last year.

"He found it hard to adjust and it can take players a bit of time. He has been outstanding over the last few months. You can’t ask any more from a midfield player who gets a return of 12 goals and, who knows, he could get more."

Lee, meanwhile, was back in the side following problems with injury and Hessenthaler was pleased with his contribution.

"He gave us a good 70 minutes," said the Gills boss. "He is not fully fit yet but he has had a tough season with injuries and expectation levels were also on him to perform."