Gillingham boss Andy Hessenthaler believes the arrival of forward Cody McDonald will soften the blow of losing Simeon Jackson.

McDonald (pictured) arrives with good reviews from his brief spell at League 1 champions Norwich and Hessenthaler is confident he can make his mark this season in League 2.

"We’ll miss Simeon but I believe we have a good replacement in respect of Cody," said Hessenthaler.

"It was his first real start for us against Calais and it wasn’t easy for him but he’ll play against players who are of higher calibre and cause them a lot of problems.

"It’s a big loss to lose Simeon, because he scores goals, but I believe Cody will score goals as well. Norwich had just given him a new two-year deal and he’s a lad that I’ve seen a few times. He’s going to be a bright spark up there.

"If he can get us 20 goals next season along with someone else then we are going to achieve what we set out to do."

The Gills finally let Jackson go on Thursday after receiving an offer too good to refuse from Norwich, with McDonald moving in the opposite direction on a season-long loan.

McDonald is due to make his first appearance at Priestfield in a Gillingham shirt against Peterborough on Tuesday (kick-off 7.45pm).

What impact can Cody McDonald make at Gillingham? Have your say below.

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