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Gillingham boss Andy Hessenthaler set to utilise squad during busy Easter programme

08:00, 22 April 2011

Andy Hessenthaler
Andy Hessenthaler

by Luke Cawdell

Andy Hessenthaler will be utilising the whole of his Gillingham squad during the crucial Easter period.

The Gills play two games in three days, starting with the visit of Barnet on Saturday and boss Hessenthaler knows he’ll need everyone ready for action.

Hessenthaler said: "One thing we have to be mindful of is that we’ve got two games in a short space of time. It might be a case that the team we play on Saturday might be different from Monday. There is no reason why we won’t freshen it up."

The team will head north on Sunday afternoon, after a light training session in Gillingham, ready for the game against Rotherham on Monday.

Curtis Weston looks set to miss out against Barnet after struggling through last weekend’s 1-1 draw against Morecambe with a knee injury.

Hessenthaler has hinted that Kevin Maher could be rested and replaced by Jack Payne, while Luke Rooney has also played his way into the manager’s thinking.

"It could be a case that we give Kevin a rest on Saturday and then play him again on Monday," said Hessenthaler.

"Jack has had a scan on a foot injury and that’s come back all-clear so he should be OK. Is it a chance for Rooney to start? We have those options."

Joe Martin limped off last week with a hip injury but should be fit for selection. John Nutter, who also impressed when coming off the bench, would slot in easily if called upon.

Stefan Payne is also expected to be available after shaking off a knock, while Mark Bentley is desperate for action after completing a six-game loan spell at Cambridge United.

Who do you think Hessenthaler should deploy in the two games? Have your say below.

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