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Gillingham boss Justin Edinburgh confronts angry fan after 1-1 draw with Walsall on Tuesday night

Gillingham boss Justin Edinburgh has spoken about how he confronted an abusive fan after the final whistle on Tuesday night.

Gills' 1-1 draw with Walsall was greeted with boos by sections of the Priestfield crowd.

But Edinburgh tried to speak to one supporter on his way to the dressing rooms - only to walk away after getting more abuse.

Gills manager Justin Edinburgh Picture: Andy Payton
Gills manager Justin Edinburgh Picture: Andy Payton

"He was swearing from the top of his voice," said Edinburgh.

"I asked him to come down and see if we could talk constructively, whether it be criticism or encouragement.

"But obviously when he came down he continued to swear at the top of his voice, and I walked away.

"A couple of his pals who were intoxicated with alcohol as well decided to run down from 25 steps up."

On reflection, Edinburgh felt that he should have walked without any interaction as is the norm after matches.

But he was clearly annoyed that the frustration of Gillingham's draw in League 1 led to personal abuse.

"I shouldn't have asked him to come down, I should have continued to walk," added the Gills boss.

"I thought that it might be a good idea to try and have a constructive conversation but that obviously wasn't to be and I walked away.

"I could see the frustration and I understand that but I don't understand the abuse and I thought 'let's see if you've got something constructive to say'. The closer he got it never got any more constructive.

"Everyone is entitled to their opinion but I don't understand the hurling of abuse. I'm disappointed more on my behalf for thinking that maybe he'd be able to have a constructive conversation."

Gills are at home to Charlton on Saturday as they aim to end a run of five League 1 matches without a win.

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