GILLINGHAM manager Andy Hessenthaler has given the first indication that he will carry on playing next season.

The 38-year-old midfielder said: "It's pretty much in my mind that I'll carry on playing next year. The key is that I still really enjoy playing the game.

"I know I have said I need to concentrate solely on being a manager, which I will do at some point, but deep down I still think I have something to give on the pitch."

He added: "The fans and the chairman have made it clear they want me to continue, but my wife is not so keen as I'm not getting any younger, so when the Stoke game is over I will sit down and decide then."