Gillingham boss Ady Pennock knows just how big Sunday’s game is.

His team take on Northampton Town, knowing they need a win to fend off the threat of relegation.

Pennock’s future as manager remains uncertain and many of the players are also fighting for their livelihoods.

He said: “It’s huge, massive, for me personally, for my family and everyone involved with the club, to stay in this league, because it affects everyone.

“The players are fighting for their futures as well. It is a big game for everyone involved in this football club. We are being positive and I am hoping we get over the line.”

The Gills will survive with a win but a defeat will mean they will be hoping relegation rivals Port Vale don't win at Fleetwood.

Pennock took over from Justin Edinburgh in January and now comes up against the man whose boots he filled.

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Edinburgh was appointed by the Cobblers soon after getting axed by the Gills.

“I can hear the frustrating of the fans,” said Pennock, after the Gills continued to slip backwards following Edinburgh’s departure.

“I am frustrated and so is the chairman, because we want the best for this club. Win, lose or draw it is not through the lack of trying for the players.

“Nerves will be jangling but others are in the same position. We have to get over the line and go from there.”

Pennock wasn’t keen on talking about his future. He was asked to take charge until the end of the season and it’s now down to Gills chairman Paul Scally if he is to be given the task of rebuilding in the summer.

As a Gills player, Pennock was hugely popular figure, but his management has come under severe scrutiny. Four wins from 20 games has led to the club being dragged into a relegation battle.

The Gills boss said: “We have to take concentrate of the game and then afterwards things will take care of themselves.

“Everyone knows my situation and that of the staff. It is a big game for all. We will concentrate on the game and I don’t want to go into details of if I am going to be here next season. We will move forward from there after the game.”