Gillingham’s progress in this season’s EFL Trophy depends on the result of tonight’s game against the manager’s former club.
Gareth Ainsworth’s side need a result against Wycombe Wanderers at Priestfield when they take on the League 1 side in the third and final group stage fixture.
Gillingham manager Gareth Ainsworth to take on former side Wycombe Wanderers in the Vertu Trophy Picture: Barry Goodwin
Ainsworth and his assistant Richard Dobson were in charge at Wycombe for over a decade, guiding them from League 2 to the Championship.
Whichever side comes out on top at Priestfield will book their place in the second round of the Trophy competition, along with Southern Section Group G leaders Colchester United.
Colchester, who top the table on seven points, entertain Fulham under-21s on the same night.
The Gills and Wycombe both have four points, with a win and a loss in each of their opening two games.
It’s a low-key fixture for most, but Ainsworth will relish the opportunity to take on his former club.
He said: “It’s a special club and I’m really hoping that we progress in the tournament.
“I’ve got some players that want to get games and that I want to get minutes into. I want to see them coming through and joining what is a fantastic squad.
“We want to try and progress in this tournament, but it’ll be really special for me to be against Wycombe.
“It always will be. You can’t take that away from me. I’ve never been back to Adams Park yet. To have them at our place, I know it’s the Trophy, which isn’t as well supported as league games and cup games. I’m still going to enjoy that one.”
The Gills have been eliminated at the first-round group stage in the previous four seasons and would be facing an away draw in round two if they progress as group-stage runners-up.
Ainsworth’s side beat Fulham under-21s 4-1 in their Trophy opener but were then beaten by a strong Colchester side in their next fixture.
Wycombe have also beaten Fulham (3-1) and lost to Colchester (1-2).
The Gills could give young goalkeeper Taite Holtam a run-out while Glenn Morris is sidelined. Lenni Cirino is suspended but Travis Akomeah could be named in the defence with Shad Ogie also needing minutes.
Armani Little and Jonny Williams missed the weekend trip to Bristol Rovers but would welcome some action if they have got over their respective injuries.
Wingers Jonny Smith, Garath McCleary and Aaron Rowe are all short of match action while Euan Williams could be set for a first appearance this season after recovering from injury.
Striker Elliott Nevitt picked up a fifth booking of the season on Saturday and could feature ahead of his expected weekend suspension in the league. Marcus Wyllie will be keen for a game after dropping out of the squad on Saturday.
It’s a 7pm kick-off at Priestfield on Tuesday night.
