Gills manager Justin Edinburgh is staying upbeat as the club's promotion push intensifies
Justin Edinburgh says Gillingham’s players and management are remaining positive as the club’s promotion push intensifies.
Still occupying a play-off place, the Gills enter Saturday’s home game against Port Vale sitting eight points off Burton Albion in second, and have a three-point gap over Barnsley in seventh.
Despite losing at the MEMS Priestfield Stadium to promotion-rivals Walsall on Tuesday, the Gills manager is staying upbeat.
"We've had setbacks this season, and on nearly every occasion we have responded. In football you always get another chance,” he said.
"I will be telling the team to go and play [tomorrow]. We need to get back to performing. If we perform then we know what we're capable of.
“We came in on Wednesday as normal, I've been in with the players and spoken to them individually, and it’s a case of regrouping and going again.
“I've reminded them of what a fantastic season they've had, how consistent they've been, and how much of a unit we are. We lost our identity in the last half hour against Walsall.
“Everything’s still achievable, and we remain positive. I feel a good vibe and determination in the dressing room.
“Nothing’s been taken out of our hands, that’s the best scenario to have. If we do what we’re capable of, we know what our destiny is.”
Ahead of tomorrow’s game, tickets for which are available here, Edinburgh updated the media with the club’s injury list.
“Adam El-Abd won’t make tomorrow’s game, unfortunately,” he added of the defender’s slight groin injury. “That’s a loss for us, but when you’re replacing him for John Egan, you know you’re in a good state.
“George Williams did some work on Wednesday and could be in contention, but we won’t risk him if he’s not ready.
“Dominic Samuel is still not fit, but will probably come back into contention next Saturday [against Shrewsbury Town at home].”