GILLINGHAM player-manager Andy Hessenthaler has received a timely boost ahead of Saturday’s match at Rotherham with Barry Ashby, Mark Saunders and Kevin James all reporting fit.

The news significantly eased the club's injury crisis. Ashby, who limped out of Saturday's 2-0 home defeat against Coventry with a thigh injury, joined in training on Wednesday and will be fit to face the Millers.

Gillingham will be relieved at the news as Saturday’s outcome could hinge on who wins the duel between Ashby and Chris Hope and Rotherham’s in-form twin-spearhead of Darren Byfield and Alan Lee.

Midfielder Saunders and winger James emerged unscathed from the reserve team’s 3-2 home defeat by Crystal Palace. Saunders, available after completing a three-match suspension, was withdrawn after 65 minutes.

James, out who had been out through suspension and illness, came off after 77 minutes.

Saunders could be in line for an immediate recall. James is likely to start on the bench.