Gillingham defender Connor Essam insists he is ready to take his chance and become a first-team regular in the heart of the Gills leaky defence.
The 19 year-old, is yet to make a first-team appearance for the League Two promotion contenders but an impressive loan spell at Blue Square bet South side Dartford, left Gills boss Andy Hessenthaler with no choice but to recall the youngster, as he looks for a solution to the Kent-based clubs recent defensive frailties.
Essam, who was also on loan at Bishops Stortford and Dover, told the clubs website that the loan spells away from the Priestfield Stadium have allowed him to develop different aspects of his game. Essam said: “I think I’m ready now, it’s the fittest I have ever felt and I think I’m playing the best football I’ve ever played. I’ll be ready as soon as I get my chance.”
The central defender played nine games for the Darts and boasts an excellent, undefeated record with seven wins and two draws. Despite his Football League inexperience, Essam is relishing the opportunity of pitching himself against high quality opposition. He continued: “It’s only two leagues difference. It’s hard to say when you haven’t played in one but I just think you get the odd couple of players in League Two that bring something different. But they’re both quite direct leagues, quite physical, strong leagues and that probably suits me.”
Hessenthaler had threatened to make drastic changes to his defence following the 4-3 defeat to AFC Wimbledon, and Essam is keen to remain in the Managers plans and earn a first start for the Gills. He added: “I’m back now and hopefully I’ll get the chance as soon as possible – hopefully at Burton.”
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