Hornets stump up for Henderson

Last updated : 04 August 2005 By Simon Head

Henderson: Wantaway striker leaves Priestfield

Henderson, who only established himself as a regular first-teamer at Priestfield last season, finished our relegation campaign as the club's top goalscorer with nine goals - and was expected to be a major figure in Neale Cooper's plans this season.

However, Henderson sensationally handed in a transfer request in pre-season, throwing his future at the club into doubt - and although his request was turned down by Neale Cooper, he did state that it would take a very good offer to prise the number nine away from Priestfield.

Watford's bid of £450,000 would probably be perceived as a very good offer for the striker - and having agreed the fee with the Gills, Watford then agreed personal terms with Henderson.

Henderson's departure will sadden some, who felt he could have been a major player for us this season, and please others, who felt that Henderson may have had his head turned over the summer. As Neale Cooper said, he only wants players who are dying to play for Gillingham. In this particular case, Henderson certainly didn't - and in that regard selling him for £450,000 would represent a good piece of business.

The question now turns to the club. What happens with the £450,000? Will any of it be given to Cooper to fund another striker to replace Henderson?

With Darren Byfield and new and as-yet unproven Paul Shields set to start on Saturday, only the ageing Iwan Roberts provides any striking cover - and after Neale Cooper's comments that he needs more firepower, the sale of Henderson must surely be followed up with a forward signing of our own.

We wait to see what happens, but if Cooper is to bring another new face into the club before the Colchester game on Saturday, he's only got 24 hours to do it.