by Alex Hoad

Andy Hessenthaler will face one of the sternest tests of his career ahead of Saturday's visit of Crewe in League 2.

Not only will he face the task of boosting morale among his beleaguered squad but he also has the challenge of picking a side when he could have just 10 outfield professionals available.

Midfielder Jack Payne is the latest player to be ruled out – with the 18-year-old spotted on crutches amid reports he has broken a bone in his foot and could be out until Christmas.

The reports are unconfirmed as the club have closed ranks this week, cancelling the pre-game press conference and banning players and staff from talking to the media.

The Gills boss brought in Swindon full-back Callum Kennedy on a month’s loan on Tuesday and the 21-year-old could go straight into the side.

The Robins youth team product can play left-back or left midfield and could start with John Nutter suspended after his red card against Dover.

Danny Spiller will also serve a ban after five bookings.

Barry Fuller, Kevin Maher, Bruce Inkango, Nicky Southall, Stefan Payne, Cody McDonald, Chris Palmer, Adebayo Akinfenwa, Sinclair and Kennedy are understood to be Gills’ only fit players, while schoolboy striker Ashley Miller is likely to figure.