GILLINGHAM player-manager Andy Hessenthaler believes the squad at Priestfield is strong enough to cope with any injuries and is finally getting the respect it deserves.

This weekend saw Simon Osborn and Mamady Sidibe leave the pitch on a stretcher, with Osborn the most serious after rupturing his Achilles.

He is expected to miss the next six months following surgery after Saturday’s 1-0 defeat at Norwich, while hopes are higher for Sidibe who twisted knee ligaments in Monday’s 1-1 draw with Preston.

Hessenthaler said: “He won’t be fit for the weekend, but it won't be too long until he’s back according to the doctor, although you never know as ligaments can take longer to repair than first thought.

“It’s disappointing as all of a sudden we’re picking up injuries, but as I said to the players at the start of the season it’s all about the squad.

“We're going to pick up injuries and players are going to come back in, so everyone will get the chance to fight for their place.”

One player who grabbed his chance was Mark Saunders, in for Osborn.

The midfielder on a month-to-month contract is a player Hessenthaler admires. He said: “I'd love to sign Mark, but finances are tight at the moment and it’s down to the chairman. He scored a great goal and had a good game against Preston so I hope we can get him sorted out."