Ian Hendon in conversation at training last week Picture: Simon Hildrew

Andy Hessenthaler refused to be drawn on stories linking assistant boss Ian Hendon with a coaching role at Championship side West Ham.

The former Tottenham and Leyton Orient player has been linked with the post of development coach in new Hammers boss Sam Allardyce’s backroom team at Upton Park.

Former Barnet boss Hendon joined Hessenthaler’s staff a year ago following a short-lived and controversial appointment as Hessenthaler’s replacement at non-league Dover.

Hendon missed Gillingham’s second pre-season friendly at Bromley on Saturday.