Back in action - Pouton, Perpetuini & Cox

Last updated : 18 August 2004 By Headley

Instant return? Alan Pouton

The game finished 0-0, but the result was largely irrelevant. The important result was the return to action of three players who will strengthen Gillingham's squad for the upcoming series of matches.

Midfielders Alan Pouton (pictured) and David Perpetuini both completed the full 90 minutes at the Sixfields Stadium on Wednesday night, while centre half Ian Cox played an hour.

With Mark Saunders out for the season with two broken bones in his leg, and Nyron Nosworthy's groin injury forcing him out of the side, the return of the trio couldn't have come at a better time.

If the management feels they are suitably match-fit, Pouton or Perpetuini may come straight into the side to face Stoke at the Britannia Stadium on Saturday, allowing player-manager Andy Hessenthaler to drop down to the bench. Should Hess opt to play a four man midfield away from home, an instant return for one of the two players looks a near certainty.

For the first time in a long time, boss Andy Hessenthaler has options in midfield. With Paul Smith and Danny Spiller both showing good early-season form, the return of Pouts and Perps should only help strengthen the midfield as the season approaches the end of its first month.