Midfielder Billy Bingham faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines after breaking his ankle in training on Friday.

Bingham, pictured, has made nine appearances for the Gills since joining from Crewe in the summer and played a key role in last week’s league victory at Rotherham.

“He is going to be out for a while,” confirmed Gillingham caretaker boss Steve Lovell. “He has chipped a bone in his leg and ankle.

“He has to go for another scan on it to see exactly what the damage is. It’s devastating for him, I just wish him well and want him back as soon as possible.

“He has got himself back into the side, got himself fit and is a very good player for us. I’m really disappointed and upset for him.

“It’s football, you can’t wrap players in cotton wool all the time, it happens. Billy going out gives somebody an opportunity to stake a claim for a place.

“Mark Byrne prior to him getting injured was one of our better midfield players earlier in the season and he has come in and done a good job. He is a workhorse and gets about the pitch.”

Bingham tweeted: “Gutted to have broken my ankle and leg. After a day of negative thoughts (on Friday), the only way forward is positivity.”