GILLINGHAM have parted company with senior physiotherapist Ken Steggles. The news will stun the players, many of whom regarded him as one of the club’s finest signings.

It has emerged that the 51-year-old has had his contract terminated four days before receiving the all-clear to resume work after suffering a heart attack during the club’s pre-season trip to France in July.

Steggles confirmed: “I received the letter terminating my contract on January 11 and the following Tuesday received another from my doctor giving me the all-clear to work again.

“I just wish they could have come the other way round. I’m fully fit and raring to go but I now find myself out of work for the first time in my life.

“I have no gripe with Gillingham and wish the club every success. Paul Scally has made a decision which he considers is in the best interests of the club. Now I must concentrate on looking for work."

Steggles was among player-manager Andy Hessenthaler's first appointments when he took charge in June, 2000. His departure leaves George Johnson as Gillingham's only physiotherapist.