SPECULATION that Gillingham striker Rod Wallace could be released at the end of the season has increased after he was ruled out of tonight's match at Sunderland with a new injury problem.

Player-manager Andy Hessenthaler would not be drawn on Wallace's future except to say that a decision would be take at the end of the season.

Since his arrival on a free transfer from Bolton two seasons ago, the 34-year-old former Southampton, Leeds and Glasgow Rangers striker has been beset with injury problems.

Hessenthaler believes his side can take something from the FA Cup semi-finalists who have lost only once in 17 League games this season at the Stadium of Light.

Boosted by Saturday's 2-0 win at home to Rotherham, the Gills boss said:"It will be the first time most of us will have played at the Stadium of Light but we go there in good heart after Saturday's result."

With none of the club's long list of injury casualties returning to fitness, Hessenthaler is expected to name an unchanged side.