Ainsworth Faces Selection Challenge with New Recruit

Gillingham manager Gareth Ainsworth is navigating a selection dilemma with the addition of new recruit Cameron Antwi. Since his signing, Antwi has primarily been an unused substitute, aside from a brief appearance during his debut against Bromley.

Ainsworth Faces Selection Challenge with New Recruit Antwi

Antwi’s situation has been further complicated by personal commitments, as he recently welcomed his first child. As a 24-year-old midfielder, he faces tough competition for the no. 10 position, primarily from teammate Bradley Dack.

Comments from Manager Ainsworth

• Ainsworth acknowledged Antwi’s challenging circumstances, stating: “He’s had a disjointed week with the birth of his first child.”
• The manager sees Antwi as an integral part of the team moving forward, describing him as a long-term project.
• Ainsworth expressed the weight of decision-making: “Cam has come here for a reason and that’s to play. If we lose, people will question my choices.”

Ainsworth’s comments also highlighted the competitive nature within the squad, with players like Euan Williams and Jonny Williams further falling back in the pecking order. He remarked, “Thirty doesn’t go into 11,” reflecting the challenge of managing player expectations.

Injury Updates and Training Progress

Midfielder Nelson Khumbeni is nearing full recovery from a shoulder injury and is a few weeks away from returning to the squad. Meanwhile, defender Conor Masterson is expected to be out for weeks due to a groin strain. Both Lenni Cirino and Marcus Wyllie have been cleared to play ahead of Gillingham’s upcoming match against Crewe.

With recent wet conditions impacting training, Gillingham has returned to their Beechings Cross training ground, which Ainsworth praised for its upkeep. He expressed gratitude towards the groundsman for maintaining quality training facilities despite the challenges posed by weather conditions.

As Gillingham prepares for future matches, Ainsworth will need to find the best strategies to integrate new talent while keeping team dynamics intact. Antwi’s potential impact on the squad remains a focal point as fans and management alike monitor his contributions on and off the pitch.