Jermaine McGlashan still has a big part to play at Gillingham - that’s the message from boss Justin Edinburgh.

McGlashan was left out of the matchday squad for last Saturday's clash at Colchester and has yet to start a game in the league. But Edinburgh insists he remains a key member of the squad.

“He massively has a role here,” said the manager.

“Away from home we had to make sure we had more defensive cover and Bradley Garmston gave us that. Jermaine will have a big part to play.

“What we have to realise is, we have a very strong squad and we are only one body away from a full squad and people will miss out.

“It’s not unnatural for players to not make the matchday 18. Players will miss out during the season but I don’t think we need to read too much into it.”

McGlashan’s only two starts have come in the Capital One Cup. He has played less than 90 minutes of football in League 1 so far.

Edinburgh said: “He hasn’t had as many minutes as he would like with the form of the team and the system working.

“But we know his capabilities and he is a great member of the squad. He will play his part this year, there is no doubt about that.”