Gillingham have missed the impact of Andy Barcham Pic: Barry Goodwin

by Luke Cawdell

Andy Barcham is set to return to the Gillingham squad for Saturday’s League 2 match with Bury.

The winger, who was voted last season’s player-of-the-year, has endured a stop-start season due to a persistent ankle injury.

Injuries have limited him to just 12 appearances this term and his last came in the 1-1 draw at Torquay on January 22.

He was back in training on Tuesday and looks likely to be named on the bench this weekend.

Gills manager Andy Hessenthaler said: "As long as there are no complications I can’t see any reason why Barcham can’t be involved at the weekend.

"I don’t think he will start but if you have to change your plans during the game he is a fantastic player to bring on. That’s what we’re looking at."

Barcham’s return to fitness means Hessenthaler is likely to scale back is search for wingers in the loan market.

He said: "With Barcham it’s been a bit stop start and if he comes through in the next week or so without any problems and kicks on then I don’t think there is any reason why we need to do that at the moment. We will see. Every week is different."