Gillingham manager Andy Hessenthaler insists Luke Rooney remains available for selection – if they want him.

Rooney (pictured) has been left out of the Gills’ first team since refusing to agree a contract extension at the club.

The midfielder has continued to train and is ready should the Gills need him. That, however, remains unlikely at present.

Hessenthaler said: "He has got on with his training and has worked hard. There is no reason why we couldn’t bring him in if we wanted but at the moment the 16 is picking itself."

Rooney’s last appearance was in the 3-3 FA Cup draw at Bournemouth on November 12.