Gillingham are waiting for news on the extent of reserve keeper Lance Cronin’s recent illness.

Cronin (pictured) was missing at the weekend as it is thought he could have contracted measles.

"I don’t think it has been confirmed that he has measles but he is in a bad way," said Gills boss Andy Hessenthaler.

"That’s what they thought at first. I need to speak with the doctor and we will find out what is exactly wrong with Lance but he is not particularly well, which is a shame."

Cronin’s absence means youth keeper Daren Hawkes has been promoted to the first team.

Hawkes and the rest of the second year scholars will soon find out whether the club are to offer professional terms for next season or release them.

Hessenthaler said: "It’s good for the kid’s education and he can only learn from being around the first team. We need to make a decision on him as well in the next week or so."