Gaffer at the Weekend

Gills boss delivers his verdict following Saturday's win over Wycombe.

Q1. A great win against Wycombe yesterday. What aspects of the performance particularly pleased you?

A1:... The unity and desire of the squad. We know that we have not got the points on the board that our performances have deserved.

We tell all the players every day that this is a squad game and yesterday proved that with so many players out or still suffering from a virus.

We have the smallest squad in League 1 bar none so it's important all the lads step forward when selected.

Q2. Two goals for Mikael Ndjoli, what will that do for his self-confidence?

A2:.... It should do him the world of good. The kid got himself a hat-trick in midweek against Watford and two yesterday, so he will enjoy his Sunday.

He comes from a very nice family and they follow him and his football all over the country so a good week for all of them.

Mikael wants to learn all the time, he is loved by everyone and that is why all the lads were so pleased for him yesterday.

Q3. Considering a virus struck the camp, affecting team selection, was the win a touch more satisfying?

A3... As I said earlier it made the win extra special. It really has been difficult with different players being struck at different times but hopefully by tomorrow we have got over the worst of it.

Q4. Great to keep a clean sheet too. Back five were excellent throughout?

A4:... Clean sheets are always nice and they give you the chance to win football matches.

Jack Bonham celebrated his birthday yesterday so he was especially pleased. My back four were exceptional in the second half, a period in games where Wycombe have been particularly strong this season.

Playing against a very direct Wycombe Wanderers team is difficult especially given the front players they have. That is not a criticism of our opponents, after all they arrived here as deserved league leaders.


Q5. You said in your programme notes the times you need fans the most is when the score is 0-0 or when you're a goal down. Fortunately we didn't fall behind yesterday but the noise in the stadium was fantastic?

A5:... At no stage did we deserve to go behind. I cannot recall Wycombe making a clear chance so a huge credit to the lads.

The supporters were superb, especially at 0 - 0 early in the second half. For
me that is when you need your supporters more than ever and I applaud the huge part they played in what was a superb but deserved victory.

Q6. Back to back home league wins too; do you get the feeling everything is just starting to come together?

A6:... Back to back wins are essential and makes such a positive difference.

In truth it will take time for this squad of players to fulfil its potential but they are working so hard to achieve those victories we all crave.

The dressing room has a great spirit and that will only get better the more we win!

Q7. A word on Barry Fuller. Like a fine wine, he seems to get better with age!?

A7:... Barry is a fantastic professional and all our young players should look at how he goes about his business.

In truth he was very average in the first half yesterday but took onboard what was said at half-time and in the second period he was outstanding.

He knows he must keep his performance levels high to stay in the starting team but he sure gives himself every chance.

Q8. Bristol Rovers on Tuesday. They had a great win on Saturday; another tough fixture in store but nothing to fear from our perspective?

A8:... Bristol Rovers have an excellent Manager whom I respect, like and know very well.

Further, they have very good players all over the pitch. The win at Lincoln City did not surprise me but that said it's a great three points.

They are also a club with a brilliant support. They get behind their team and there is always a good atmosphere so I am certainly looking forward to another very tough evening of football.