Gillingham midfielder Jack Payne has been ruled out for a month.

The youngster came off worse from a challenge with Shrewsbury’s Marvin Morgan on Saturday.

Scans have revealed he has got medial ligament damage to his right knee.

It is a huge loss to the Gills with the midfielder playing a key role in Andy Hessenthaler’s team.

The Gills boss said: "It’s a big blow for us as he is the catalyst for us from midfield.

"We will miss his endeavour on the football and he is the one who makes us tick in midfield on the football."

Payne has played the defensive midfield role for Gills this season but Hessenthaler could play two upfront against Accrington.

"We haven’t decided which way we are going to go yet," said Hessenthaler.

Danny Spiller also faces a race against time to be fit this weekend after missing training due to illness.

How do you think the Gills will cope without Jack Payne? Comment below.