Hess: Time for me to get back out there

Last updated : 07 October 2004 By Headley
Hess: playing role
Talking to Sky Sports News today, Hessenthaler said that now Gorman was at the club, it left him free to concentrate on playing again - and that he may well return to the side.

Hessenthaler's experience, energy and commitment is legendary - and it is hoped his return to the side might add a much-needed spark to the team's ailing midfield.

In the last 12 months, we've seen Hessenthaler lose his discipline on the pitch as the pressure of being a player/manager was clearly taking its toll. More recently, Hessenthaler has taken a back seat from playing, deciding it was better to concentrate on managerial matters as Gills run of poor form continued.

Gorman's arrival will hopefully help relieve Hessenthaler of the pressure he's clearly been under in recent months - leaving the 39-year-old to concentrate on rolling back the years on the pitch as the Gills bid to move up the table.

Gorman, who was officially unveiled as the Gills' new assistant manager today (Thursday), will bring over 20 years of coaching and managerial experience to the club - and clearly he will take a more prominent role in in first-team affairs than previous assistant Wayne Jones.

The new situation, where it seems Gorman will have a big say over team affairs, does present us with a big question: Who will pick the team?