Neil Harris is expected to make a few changes to his starting XI for the visit of Colchester in the Papa John's Trophy.
Gillingham v Colchester United
Papa John’s Trophy
MEMS Priestfield Stadium
Tuesday October 11th
Kick-Off, 7.45pm
Team News:
Jake Turner will likely start in goal for the fixture in place of Glenn Morris, but Haji Mnoga will miss out due to being cup-tied. Bailey Akehurst, who played for the under 18’s at the weekend, could come back into the squad for the game against Colchester.
Dom Jefferies, Elkan Baggott, Lewis Walker, Josh Chambers and Jordan Green are all in contention to start the final group game.
Former Gills striker John Akinde could start against his former club, having scored the winner in Colchester’s 2-1 win against Charlton. The likes of Matty Longstaff, Tom Eastman and Beryly Lubala could all come into the line-up, having started on the bench in Colchester’s win over Harrogate at the weekend.
Manager Comments:
Neil Harris [Speaking after the draw at Crewe] - “It’s an opportunity for players to find some rhythm and some form, an opportunity for them to score goals. I have been flexible with the team selection, I am prepared to give people an opportunity. Tuesday provides an opportunity for minutes on the pitch but also to get some confidence, form and belief.
“There’s not going to be anybody not here today that comes into the reckoning on Tuesday.”
Matt Bloomfield - “I’m desperate to win any game I partake in, whether that’s as a player or now as a Head Coach. We’ll be setting the boys up to try and win the game, we’ll do our best and hopefully we can.
“But we’ll deal with all scenarios as flat-line as we can – trying not to get too high or too low. But it’s an opportunity for the boys to go and play football again."
Previous Meetings:
The two sides met in the Papa John’s Trophy last season. Robbie McKenzie secured the win for the Gills in stoppage time as he did well to cushion his volley into the bottom corner from inside the penalty area.
Ticket Information:
BUY TICKETS | GILLINGHAM V COLCHESTER UNITED
Odds:
Gillingham win - 10/11
Draw - 23/10
Colchester United win - 13/5
Special Bet: Lewis Walker to score first and Gillingham to win 2-0 - 40/1.
Match Officials:
Referee - Sam Allison
Assistants - Joseph Stokes and Leigh Crowhurst
Fourth Official - Alan Dale
iFollow:
Tuesday’s game is available to purchase on iFollow for a one-off fee of £10. BBC Radio Kent will provide full coverage of the fixture with EFL Digital providing the replays and graphics.
To purchase a video match pass, click here.
