Defensive changes could be on the cards for Gillingham this weekend as they make the short trip to Colchester.
Manager Gareth Ainsworth is hoping to have defenders Andy Smith and Shad Ogie back available for the League 2 clash, which would free up Robbie McKenzie to return to his more accustomed midfield role.
McKenzie has been filling in at centre-half to play alongside Sam Gale, but Ainsworth admits he’s been missed in the middle of the park
Ainsworth said: “He is a great utility player to have, which in a small squad is really great, but last week, and previous weeks when I’ve played him in defence, we have missed him in midfield.
“There could be changes there, but Robbie can play anywhere, and I’m very happy we have him in the squad because he has filled in almost everywhere this season, and I am sure he could play upfront if I asked him to. He is a great player and a great person.
“Andy and Shad are in serious contention for the squad, Conor (Masterson) won’t be, he is still a few weeks away. Andy and Shad will both hopefully make the trip.”
If McKenzie does remain in defence, Ainsworth will have midfielder Armani Little back available after a two-game suspension, banned for his abuse towards a Newport supporter.
“He’s a real warrior, a real talisman and he was devastated to be banned,” said the Gills manager.
“It’s brilliant to have him back, and one or two others are creeping back into the grass, which is great. Conor Masterson has been out there. We’ve one or two knocks, but we are going with a pretty strong team.”
Sam Vokes came off early on last week at Shrewsbury with a calf injury but Ainsworth hopes he will be fit.
The manager said: “He felt it early enough not to have to worry about him being out, which is great. Hopefully he will make the trip.
“It was great for Josh Andrews to take his chance (as Vokes’ replacement) and he was colossal in the second half. When one door closes, another opens.
“It was one of his best games for us and taking him out for a couple of games worked.”
Weekend opponents, Colchester, have won their last three games in League 2.
“It will be a really good challenge,” said the Gills boss.
“They’re on a good run, very counter-attacking team. (Manager) Danny Cowley has got them going after a sticky start and they are playing free-flowing football and scoring good goals.
“We will have to be at our best but there is no reason we can’t pick the points up.
“On the day it’s important that we are organised, know what we are doing, because I am sure they will be up for it on this run that they’re on. It’s a fantastic run, hopefully we can stop them.
Ainsworth added: “We will do damage to teams but we need to earn the right to do that.”
