Former Gillingham boss Andy Hessenthaler insists his management days are not over, despite taking on the role of director of football at Priestfield.

Just eight days after having his contract terminated as manager, Hessenthaler, pictured, was back on board after accepting a proposal from Gills chairman Paul Scally.

Mr Scally wants Hessenthaler to oversee football at the club from top to bottom.

Hessenthaler said: "I have taken on this job but I still want to be a manager at some stage. I just might need a rest (from managing) at the moment.

"If, in a few months, there is an opportunity and something comes up then who knows? Management is still something I would like to do."

Hessenthaler is, for now, looking forward to his new position at Priestfield.

He said: "It is a different challenge and it’s something that is interesting because I will get to oversee footballing matters and liaise quite a bit with the chairman.

"With the chairman being out of the country, I can take stuff off his shoulders that he has to deal with, acting as a link between him and the manager. I will be getting out there, watching games and overseeing all footballing matters."