Matty Willock could return for Gillingham against Oxford

Posted Friday, January 17, 2020 by PA

Gillingham boss Steve Evans has confirmed midfielder Matty Willock could be in contention for a first start since the end of August in the Sky Bet League One match against Oxford.

Former Manchester United youngster Willock is close to full fitness following hamstring and knee injuries, having been an unused substitute for the past two games.

Recent loan signing Jordan Roberts should feature again having made his debut in last weekend’s goalless draw at Peterborough, which extended the Gills’ unbeaten run to seven league matches.

Midfielder Mark Byrne has been ruled out for the rest of the season following surgery on an ACL knee injury.

Oxford will check on Cameron Brannagan ahead of the trip to Kent as the U’s resume their push for the play-offs.

Midfielder Brannagan started on the bench for the midweek goalless draw against Ipswich after having been troubled by a sore knee, but could return to the starting XI.

Jamie Hanson is back in full training following his hamstring issue and pressing for a place in the squad, while midfielder Anthony Forde (ribs) is also closing in on a return.

Forward James Henry (thigh) is expected to be out until February, while on-loan Liverpool youngster Ben Woodburn (foot) continues his own recovery.