FORMER Gillingham FC player-manager Andy Hessenthaler is all set to tackle a new challenge. But this time it will be his business skills rather than his soccer skills that will be put to the test.

He has teamed up with current Gillingham player Nicky Southall to buy the Lloyd’s Sports and Social Club in Featherby Road, Gillingham.

The pair, with two other partners, aim to turn it into a top sports academy and a premier night spot.

The club would have been put up for sale in the New Year if Hessenthaler and his partners had not stepped in.

Hessenthaler and Southall will now be running a sports-themed bar just a mile from Gillingham chairman Paul Scally’s Priestfield complex, which includes the Blues Rock Cafe.