GILLINGHAM will be without player-manager Andy Hessenthaler on Saturday for the visit of Derby, making it a timely return for Paul Smith.

Hessenthaler damaged his ankle ligaments in training on Tuesday and said: "It’s not a bad one, but it will stop me playing this weekend.

"I’m gutted, but maybe it will help having a little rest. Having Paul back is a boost and there’s a chance John Robinson (hamstring) and Nicky Southall (thigh) could feature.

"Iwan Roberts and Tommy Johnson are pushing for a place, although I don’t want to tinker too much with the team because we are doing well at the moment.

"We could have a big squad again in a week or so as Barry Ashby (calf), Patrick Agyemang (hamstring), Darren Byfield (knee) and John Hills (ankle) are all close to returning from injury, but not this week."

* Hessenthaler spoke to KM-fm about the injury situation...