RIGHT wing-back Nyron Nosworthy is keen to show manager Andy Hessenthaler that Saturday's happy return for Gillingham against Coventry was no flash in the pan. The injury-plagued 20-year-old, called into the side against the Sky Blues just over an hour before kick off as replacement for flu victim Mark Patterson, responded by producing an accomplished performance that drew acclaim from supporters.

It was his first start this season and his first since the 1-0 win at Nottingham Forest on April 28.

With Patterson expected to be fit for Southampton's visit in the Worthington Cup, third round, on Tuesday, October 9, Nosworthy has served notice that he is ready to do battle for the position.

"When I arrived at the ground I had no idea I would be playing," he said. "Then I heard Patto was ill and the next thing I was told I was playing. All I could do was my best and show the Gaffer what I'm capable of. I looked at some of the players in their side like Chippo and O'Neill and thought to myself that all I could do was to keep them quiet.

"At the end of the game I felt good and strong and hopefully I'll be in with a shout for the Southampton match."

He added: "I've had a couple of setbacks with injuries but I'm determined to stay fit and keep my place in the side. The Gaffer has talked of the need to hot up competition for places and that's what I'm going to do."

Nosworthy was part of a 25-strong squad leaving today for La Manga where they will remain before returning in the early hours of Sunday morning.