Source: SKY_Sports
Stimson in Jackson admission
Gillingham boss Mark Stimson has reluctantly admitted that striker Simeon Jackson could be ready to step up the divisions.
The striker has grabbed eight goals already this term, prompting interest from Everton and a handful of Championship sides as the Gills continue to impress after promotion to League One.
The 22-year-old moved to the Priestfield Stadium in January 2008 and has been a revelation after four prolific years with Rushden and Diamonds.
However, Gillingham boss Stimson is unconcerned by the speculation and believes it may actually give him more confidence.
"It won't do him any harm to be linked and it will be a massive confidence boost," he told Kent Online.
"The most important thing is that the player keeps playing the way he is because he is on form.
"He's getting chances and taking more than he's missing. He's up among the pace setters early on and I'm sure his aim is to stay there.
"If he can get 20 goals before Christmas then at any level that is a phenomenal achievement.
"We have to take it as speculation and he knows that if there is anything, then he would be the first to be told."
Stimson is realistic about keeping the Canadian international, but admits that should Jackson get the opportunity to climb the divisions, he has no doubt he can cut it at the top.
He said: "If he progresses the way he is doing, then by January I would be surprised if two or three clubs had not come in for him.
"Personally, I believe he is now ready for the next challenge whether that be going into the Championship or a squad higher up.
"I hope it doesn't happen because that will mess up my plans."
