Ashley Miller returned to the Gillingham bench against Aldershot on Saturday and boss Andy Hessenthaler insists he’s there on merit.

The Gills are short of attacking options because of injuries, and with little chance of newcomers arriving before the transfer window shuts at the end of Monday, the 16-year-old could find himself involved more frequently.

The academy player, who is set to join the club’s scholarship programme next season, is highly rated and Hessenthaler wants to make sure he’s involved.

"It wasn’t a case because we were light on numbers; we want to keep him involved as best we can because we think very highly of him," said Hessenthaler.

"We thought about getting Ash on the pitch at one time (against Aldershot) to freshen things up. With his pace it could have caused them problems.

"We like him and he needs to be involved in the first team when he can be."

Ashley Miller during his first team debut against Wycombe Wanderers earlier in the season Picture: Barry Goodwin

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