Gillingham v Southend

GILLINGHAM manager Mark Stimson will have to re-shuffle his attack ahead of Southend’s visit to Priestfield on Boxing Day.

Chris Dickson’s departure leaves a big hole to fill and Delroy Facey is the man likeliest to fill the gap as Gillingham look to avoid a third straight defeat.

Also aiming to make his first start for the club will be Shabazz Baidoo who has yet to feature since joining the club on loan from Championship side QPR.

Former Southend players Mark Bentley and Stuart Thurgood will line up in midfield, while Adam Bygrave is expected to return to the centre of defence, alongside Simon King.

Ian Cox (thigh) is likely to remain sidelined while Efe Sodje (eye) is out of action for the festive season.

The two clubs last met in September when Southend comfortably beat the Gills 3-0 at Roots Hall. Like Gillingham, Southend have lost their last two League 1 matches, and will be keen to get back on track on Wednesday.