Hessenthaler wants Striker Permanently

After a seven goal thriller on a rollercoaster of a Saturday, in which Andy Hessenthaler experienced every emotion possible, the 4-3 victory over Northampton Town has given the Gills boss fresh impetus in trying to secure the services of hat-trick hero Jo Kuffour on a permanent basis. Kuffour’s first half hat-trick gave the League Two club a 3-1 half time lead against a resolute Northampton side and Hessenthaler believes the former Bristol Rovers forward should be playing at a much higher level. He said, “"Jo's too good for this league but we're delighted we've got him. Let's hope that we can do a deal in January.”

Kuffour has bagged five goals in seven games for Gillingham, but will be unavailable for the Gills FA Cup clash with Bournemouth this weekend. Both Kuffour and fellow strike partner Frank Nouble, on loan from West Ham United, have been refused permission to play leaving Hessenthaler disappointed. He added, “It is a shame. We'd love to have them but we can cope with that and we have to.”