GILLINGHAM player-manager Andy Hessenthaler will ask his players to summon their renowned siege mentality at Walsall on Saturday after a week of fending off criticism following five games without a win.

He stressed: “What’s important is that we dig in at Walsall and get something from the game.”

Hessenthaler is confident the team’s downturn in form is nothing more than a disagreeable blip. That opinion is shared by defender Chris Hope.

He said: "I understand the fans’ frustrations and felt it against Sheffield Wednesday. I think what we need more than anything is a good win at home which will make everyone happy.

“But there is no doubt in my mind we’re a better side away from home chiefly because teams can't afford to sit back and defend like they do when they come to Priestfield."

Midfielder Mark Saunders looks set to keep his place with Roland Edge staying at left-back and David Perpetuini in midfield. Tommy Johnson and Marlon King continue together up front.