GILLINGHAM’S Andy Hessenthaler has emerged among the early contenders for the Watford manager’s job following Gianluca Vialli’s sacking last week.

Although relations between Hessenthaler and Watford were strained when he moved to Priestfield as a player in August, 1996, the Gills boss has won the admiration of both directors and supporters alike at Vicarage Road for his skilful management with limited resources.

That admiration was confirmed on the final day of last season when Gillingham played at Watford and Hessenthaler received a warm ovation from Watford supporters.

Hessenthaler, who has two years of his Gillingham contract remaining, is making no comment about speculation linking him with the job, though rumours were rife after Gillingham's 3-2 win at Watford on April 21.

But a Watford source said last night: "There is no doubt that Andy Hessenthaler is among the emerging young managers in the game and, like everyone else, the Watford directors have noted what he has achieved on a limited budget at Gillingham."