Gillingham won’t have to face former star striker Simeon Jackson in Tuesday's Carling Cup first round match at Norwich.

Andy Hessenthaler made a gentleman’s agreement with his Norwich counterpart Paul Lambert not to play Jackson, pictured, following his move to Carrow Road last month.

Cody McDonald, who moved in the opposite direction on loan, is ruled out as well.

"I had a chat with Paul Lambert when the deal went through and he’s not going to play Simeon. Cody is not fit anyway, and he wouldn’t play either," said Hessenthaler.

"That’s the agreement but they have a ready replacement in Grant Holt, who will definitely start, so it doesn’t get any easier as he is a good player."

Former Gills captain Andrew Crofts will also be absent. He has been called up into the Wales squad.

The clash comes just three and a half months after the two teams met at Carrow Road in League 1. A 2-0 win for Norwich that day wrapped up the title for Lambert’s men

"It’s a good game for us and there is no real pressure," said Hessenthaler. "I would love to go there and put a real show on, try and pass the ball, enjoy it and who knows?"

Barry Fuller (knee), Garry Richards (ankle), Dennis Oli (hamstring), Andrew White (hamstring) and Simon King (ankle) are all out.

Does Simeon Jackson's absence give Gillingham a better chance of beating Norwich? Have your say in our comments section below.

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