GILLINGHAM striker Iffy Onuora serves the second of a four-match ban against Sheffield Wednesday on Saturday ruing the red mist that descended last month against Watford. Since that Sunday when, out of character, he lashed out at Watford's Paul Robinson, it has been impossible to discern who regretted his actions most _ Onuora or player-manager Andy Hessenthaler.

The Gills boss has repeatedly stressed the striker's importance to the side leaving Onuora to reflect on a rush of blood that will keep him out of the game until December 29. Hessenthaler said: "We miss Iffy because, apart from anything else, his physical presence up front is so important to us. He's never afraid to go in where it hurts and has the strength to unsettle defences."

Onuoura, meanwhile, will watch from his seat in the stand on Saturday as replacement Paul Shaw attempts to show home supporters that last week's two-goal salvo against Nottingham Forest was no flash in the pan.

Onuora confessed: "The gaffer's been saying some nice things, which I appreciate, but I'm just so frustrated with myself. I had been enjoying my football and then I let myself down. You get into a routine when you're playing and now I'm out of that routine and of course you miss the match fitness.

"What makes the suspension even worse is that the team are going so well with seven games unbeaten. And of course you want a piece of the action but good luck to Paul Shaw who took his chance against Forest."

Midfielder Mark Saunders is waiting to learn whether he did enough on his recall against Forest to retain his place now that Marcus Browning is free from a one-match suspension.

Transfer-listed Guy Butters retains his place at the heart of the defence as Barry Ashby is still nursing a sceptic toe.

With Mark Patterson having record from flu and Ty Gooden fit again, Hessenthaler's options among his substitutes have been increased.