Gillingham are further investigating an injury that is keeping January transfer-window signing Josh Andrews sidelined. The 22-year-old joined from Championship side Birmingham City but is yet to make an appearance for the Gills.
The six-foot-five striker made an appearance for Gillingham’s B Team last week which should have been the final step of his recovery, but he picked up an injury and the extent of it remains unclear.
The man from Solihull arrived at Priestfield from the Blues having impressed on loan at fellow League Two outfit Accrington Stanley for the first half of the season. Andrews scored six goals from 22 appearances in all competitions for the ‘Owd Reds before being recalled by his parent club on transfer deadline day before quickly signing for the Gills for an undisclosed fee.
Head coach Stephen Clemence spoke to local media and understands the frustration about the whole situation but insists his deadline day signing will come good for the Kent side.
“He has an ultrasound scan now (this week) because the symptoms he is feeling aren’t too bad but one of the scans says it looks quite bad.
“We are getting another scan, another opinion, just to see where we are at and we will get that this week.” He continued.
“It’s frustrating for the boy, he’s definitely frustrated, but we will keep him going. He’s going to be a good signing for this football club.” Clemence said.
Writer’s View
This is incredibly frustrating for both parties in this situation. Andrews would have been eager to make his mark at Priestfield, but reoccurring injuries have stopped him from hitting the ground running. He will be pleased that Clemence is still showing faith in him and believes his future is still bright at Gillingham.
Fans will be annoyed at having to wait to see their new man in action though. Gillingham haven’t been too prolific so far this campaign and it would have been ideal to have another option at least. With only 12 games left of the season and the hunt for the playoffs still on, it’s going to be a tense couple of months for the Gills. If Andrews’ injury comes back less serious than initially thought he could be key for them and a deciding factor to whether they make the top seven or not.
