GILLINGHAM could be without eight senior players for the Division 1 trip to Bradford at the weekend after the squad was hit by a number of injuries.

Already missing long-term injury victims Ty Gooden (ankle), Simon Osborn (Achilles) and Adrian Pennock (knee), Gillingham boss Andy Hessenthaler could now be without another five men, including himself.

Despite serving a one-match ban following his sending off against Sheffield Wednesday, Hessenthaler has a calf strain while David Perpetuini's ankle is still causing him problems.

Forwards Tommy Johnson (foot) and Guy Ipoua (leg infection) are also doubtful alongside Rod Wallace, who has yet to start a game since early September due to a hamstring injury.

One positive note for the Gillingham manager is the return to fitness of central defender Barry Ashby, who looks set to make his 250th appearance for the club after missing the home game against Stoke with a groin injury.

The selection problems have made the lack of transfer activity all the more frustrating for the Gills management team after their efforts to sign Ipswich defender Wayne Brown and West Ham midfielder John Moncur stuttered this week.