Rose set to play through the pain

Published: 18 Dec 2009 - 14:17:13

Rss feed

Rose was due to go under the surgeon's knife this week to correct a hernia problem but has now decided to delay the operation and make himself available to face the Gills. Skipper Michael Raynes, who missed the 4-0 FA Cup defeat by Torquay in midweek, could also return but on-loan Reading striker Nicholas Bignall is ruled out for a second successive game because of a knee problem. Fellow loanee Liam Bridcutt is also struggling with a knee injury sustained against Torquay and has returned to parent club Chelsea for treatment. Carl Baker will again be absent as he serves the second instalment of a three-match ban for his red card against Charlton last weekend. Christian Ribeiro and Matty McNeil, both ineligible against Torquay, will make a welcome return to the squad.