Gillingham captain Armani Little is targeting a return to action on Monday when his side face his former club AFC Wimbledon.
Little, 28, missed the Gills’ Good Friday draw against Cheltenham Town after picking up a knock in training, but hopes remain high that he will be available to play a part in the Easter Monday fixture.
The midfielder, who joined Gillingham from the Dons last summer and was appointed captain midway through the season, has been a key figure, making 36 appearances during the current campaign. Although hopes of a promotion push have faded, the Gills will be eager to finish the season strongly, with Monday’s meeting carrying extra significance for Little.
Ainsworth on Little’s Recovery and Khumbeni’s Chance
Manager Gareth Ainsworth confirmed that the decision to leave Little out against Cheltenham was precautionary, allowing him more time to recover fully ahead of the crucial game.
“He will absolutely be desperate (to play),” said Ainsworth. “It’s not often I get the privilege of being able to pick somebody and say, ‘look, you stay at home’ because I know how much Monday means to you and things like that. We’ve just taken any risk out of the way for Armani.
“He’s a warrior. He’s not one to shirk a challenge but I took the decision out of his hands because I could see him going ‘I’ll play (on Friday)’.”
In Little’s absence, Ainsworth handed January signing Nelson Khumbeni his first start under his management. The 22-year-old, who arrived from Bolton Wanderers for an undisclosed fee, put in a battling display at Cheltenham as he made just his fourth start for the club.
Ainsworth was pleased with Khumbeni’s performance but stressed there is still development ahead for the young midfielder, citing his previous experience at Bolton and Accrington Stanley as promising foundations to build upon.
Elsewhere, Jack Nolan was given a first start under Ainsworth and impressed with his forward play, while defender Andy Smith continues to edge closer to a return from injury. Euan Williams missed out with a dead leg and Ethan Coleman, despite being declared fit pre-match, did not feature.
Gillingham will be hoping to have more options available for Monday as they look to finish the season positively against a Wimbledon side still chasing promotion.
Writer’s View
Armani Little’s potential return will be a major boost for Gillingham heading into the clash with AFC Wimbledon. Gareth Ainsworth’s decision to protect his captain’s fitness shows smart management at a critical point. With young players like Nelson Khumbeni also stepping up, the Gills may yet end a challenging season on a high note.
