GILLINGHAM skipper Paul Smith believes the outcome of the duel between centre-backs Chris Hope and Barry Ashby against Mark Viduka holds the key to Saturday's FA Cup, fourth round, tie against Leeds.

The Leeds striker and Australian international, knicknamed the “Ox,” has the power and deceptive pace to unhinge the most rigid defences.

But Smith, fresh from Saturday’s 250th appearance for the club against Leicester, insists the Gillingham pair are capable of subduing a player who is notoriously inconsistent.

Smith said: “I know Barry and Chris can’t wait to test themselves against someone of Viduka’s calibre. The more physical an opponent, the better they like it. And if Alan Smith is up there alongside him, so much the better.

The Gillingham squad has arrived back from training in La Manga ready for Saturday’s tie at Priestfield which is being broadcast live on Sky. Nyron Nosworthy remains out of contention with a groin injury.