EXCLUSIVE by Luke Cawdell

Cody McDonald and Andy Barcham have both rejected the chance to stay at Gillingham, according to manager Andy Hessenthaler.

Last season’s leading scorer and player-of-the-year McDonald looks set to try his luck at a higher level, if he leaves Norwich, as is the case with winger Barcham.

The rejection is a blow to Hessenthaler, who is trying to assemble a promotion-challenging team for the new season on a reduced budget.

Hessenthaler said: “It looks like Andy Barcham won’t be staying. He has something else lined up and we won’t be getting Cody.

“We are disappointed to be losing Barcham and Cody but what can you do? Barcham sees himself playing in League 1 and, as a former player myself, you can’t blame them for wanting to play at a higher level.

“It’s not about money for those two boys, it’s about football. They are thinking about the football and that’s what they want to do. I am disappointed but we need to now go out and try and replace them as best we can.”

Barcham has been with the Gills since September 2008 when he arrived on a free transfer during Mark Stimson’s reign.

He quickly established himself as a key player picked up the player-of-the-season award during the club’s relegation season in 2009/10. Injuries blighted him during the last campaign, restricting him to just 25 appearances.

McDonald arrived on loan from Norwich as part of the deal which saw Simeon Jackson head in the opposite direction. He was Gillingham’s main goal threat last season, hitting 26 goals.

Above: Barcham and McDonald look set to leave Gills. Picture: Barry Goodwin

How surprised are you that Andy Barcham has rejected a new deal? Who should replace Cody McDonald? Have your say in our comments section below.