WITH Gillingham skipper Paul Smith out through injury, the pressure is on player-manager Andy Hessenthaler to play a part in the opening game of the season at Sheffield United - even though he is nursing knocks and bruises.

The 38-year-old Gills boss said: "As long as I feel fit I'll keep going. If I can come off the bench and liven a few up then I'll do it."

If Hessenthaler plays he will partner Mark Saunders in duelling for midfield supremacy against United's influential Michael Brown and Michael Tonge with Danny Spiller starting on the bench.

Sheffield United are expected to include striker Ashley Ward who has recently signed from Bradford City.

FULL MATCH PREVIEW IN THIS FRIDAY'S MEDWAY MESSENGER