Gillingham manager Mark Stimson hailed the impact of midfielder Rashid Yussuff during Monday’s draw in Exeter and his attitude before it.

The 20-year-old was thrown into the fray following a raft of injuries and suspensions to make his first start for the Gills.

Stimson revealed that the youngster’s straight talking and positive attitude helped him get the start he craved.

"It was a fantastic debut," said the Gillingham manager. "He was a massive plus for us. After the game on Boxing Day he came knocking on my door and said ‘Curtis Weston is out – play me.’ How can you not play someone who says that to you?

"I love that type of attitude because they are the kind of people I have worked with before. He’s got the right attitude plus the ability and he showed it.

"He got tired in the end and so did Stuart Lewis but that’s only natural because they put so much work in.

"He did well and he has a great chance of starting at Accrington."

Stimson was also forced to put Tom Wynter on for the second game running, following an injury to fellow defender Matt Fry and he was another youngster making big impressions on the Gills boss.

He said: "He’s stepped on there and he looked a senior pro. He’s won balls, he’s headed it and he’s put tackles in and that’s just great."