PENNOCK: “THE PLACE WILL BE ROCKING”

Gills head coach Ady Pennock says he's looking forward to the atmosphere inside the MEMS Priestfield Stadium on Saturday as Southend United make the short journey across the river.

The Shrimpers have lost just two out of their last league 17 matches, but the Gills are unbeaten in four home games under Pennock. 

Pennock on...Saturday's atmosphere: "They're flying high, Phil Brown's doing a great job there. There's going to be 2,000 Southend fans here tomorrow, so there will be a good atmosphere, and I can't wait. The boys are chomping at the bit, they're very positive and they're really looking forward to it.

"Collectively as a team Southend are strong, but I want them to worry about us, too, because we're doing OK at the moment. I just want to get three points for the players, because the place will be rocking when we do."

Pennock on…the players: “I have been very pleased with the players, they have been first class. 

“Performances have been very good and, like I say in Saturday’s programme notes, the players deserve three points more than anyone else because of their work rate and their hunger.

“They are all hungry to do well here. Our first win isn’t too far away. They are putting in everything they can, and I can’t wait to get three points for them.”

“It’s not just on a Saturday that they work hard, it is every day in training. We have come in and changed the training schedule, but the players haven’t moaned or groaned, they've just got on with it because they know it is for their benefit."

Pennock on…loan striker Joe Quigley: “He is another option for us. He’s a good size, a presence and he can hold the ball up. He is hungry to do well here and likes the place. He is ready and raring to go and we are pleased to get him on board.”