BARRY ASHBY'S fitness holds the key to both the captaincy and Gillingham's formation for Saturday's season opener against Sheffield United at Bramall Lane.

Providing he recovers from the back spasm that kept him out of Saturday's friendly at Dover, Ashby will play as one of three centre-backs in a new 3-5-2 formation. If not, player-manager Andy Hessenthaler will retain a flat back four.

The Gills boss has also handed the captain's armband to Ashby in the absence of the injured Paul Smith, though superstition could yet see him decline.

Hessenthaler explained: "Barry feels the team never did well when he captained them in pre-season games and is reluctant to take it on. The choice is his. If he says no then Chris Hope will be given the job."

If Hessenthaler plays he will partner Mark Saunders in duelling for midfield supremacy against United's influential Michael Brown and Michael Tonge with Danny Spiller starting on the bench.

Injuries to goalkeeper Jason Brown (thumb) and John Hills (bruised toe) have hindered his first selection as the club bid to complete a hat-trick of opening day wins after successes last season against Wimbledon and Preston in 2001.

Sheffield United are expected to include striker Ashley Ward, signed on Thursday, from Bradford City.