Danny Kedwell was left at home on Monday but he’s hoping to be back for Preston on Saturday.

The 10-goal striker was rested as a precaution by Gills boss Peter Taylor after only just returning from a knee injury.

Kedwell’s brief appearance on Friday, against Tranmere Rovers, was crucial in helping Gills bag maximum points.

Taylor described the 20 minute showing as “fantastic” but was looking ahead at the final two games when opting to leave Kedwell out at Walsall.

It was a move that Kedwell understood.

He said: “The gaffer pulled me aside to tell me I wasn’t going to play and it’s good that he is looking after me.

“I was trying to push the gaffer to play but he wanted me to be fit for Preston and Shrewsbury.

“The gaffer is just making sure I am right. Those last two games could have been crucial and the gaffer was looking ahead.”

Kedwell has had a rough few months on the sidelines.

He underwent a hernia operation in January and that left him out for just over a month.

After returning to fitness, he was hoping to be involved at Bristol City on March 1, before a freak injury ruled him out.

The Gills striker was playing against Luton in a behind-closed-doors game and had just scored a goal that was similar to the Paul Gascoigne strike for England against Scotland.

He was due to be subbed at the break to be ready for the trip to Bristol.

“All of a sudden one of the Luton players fell over his own foot and as he fell, his elbow went through my knee,” said Kedwell.

“I just couldn’t believe it.”

Kedwell finally returned on Friday, with a 20-minute showing, after coming off the bench.

He said: “It was great to come back and play in what was such an important game and to help them to a win.

“I was desperate to be a part of it because I want the club to stay up, not just as a footballer, but as a fan.

“It was such a great buzz to be back on Friday. The reception I got was unbelievable and it was emotional for me. To have been out injured for so long was very hard.”

Kedwell now hopes to play a part in the final two games, as the Gills look set to finally secure their League 1 status.

“It’s the last push and I want to be involved,” said the Gills number nine.

“It’s good that the gaffer likes me, believes in me and is looking out for me but it’s amazing how much I have missed it.”