Barry Fuller leaves the pitch against Leyton Orient with a fractured arm Picture: Barry Goodwin

by Luke Cawdell

Gillingham captain Barry Fuller will find out on Friday how long he will be sidelined for.

The defender received a kick to his arm just before half-time against Leyton Orient on Tuesday and x-rays revealed that there was a fracture.

It was a freak injury and Gills boss Mark Stimson said: "His arms were down by his side. Their guy tried to kick the ball but caught Barry’s arm."

Chris Palmer is the likely candidate to fill in at right-back.

Fuller, who has been offered a new two-year deal at Priestfield, had played more games than anyone else this season with 38 appearances and his loss is a blow to Stimson.

He said: "He is a big player for us and will be a big miss. He’s had a fantastic season and led by example but we have to get on with it.

"We will find out on Friday how long he is out for when he sees the specialist but the signs are not good. I think he will be back for the end of the season though.

"We will miss his leadership and will to win, not just in games but in training. He wants to win every game and now it’s up to others to take that on board."