Hessenthaler says farewell to Priestfield

Last updated : 16 January 2006 By Simon Head

Hessenthaler: Gills legend calls time on his Priestfield career

Hessenthaler signed for the Gills way back in 1996 for a then-club-record fee of £235,000, and made 362 appearances for the Gills, scoring 28 goals.

He was twice named player of the season - and will be remembered as one of THE legends in the history of Gillingham FootbaIl Club.

As a player, he was one of the footbalI club's very best ever - and he went on to manage the Gills to their highest-ever league finishes after taking over from Peter Taylor following the Gills' promotion to the Championship (then Division One) in 2000.

He was unable to consolidate the side, however, and eventually stepped down mid-way through our relegation season last year to allow Stan Ternent to take over.

Hess remained at the club and has played his part this season, making 21 appearances and scoring once, at Glanford Park in a 1-1 draw with Scunthorpe.

Andy has voiced his desire to continue playing until the end of the season, before looking to move into coaching and management full-time next season.

We thank Andy for a decade of superb service to the club - and wish him every success in his future career.