Dunn hints at bench role at Gillingham

waiting in the wings . . .David Dunn may name himself among the substitutes as Athletic take on high-flying Gillingham tomorrow.

DAVID Dunn could pull his boots on again and feature from the bench at Gillingham tomorrow.

Athletic’s manager has so far not selected himself for the matchday squad for his three games as manager. But for what he describes as his most difficult challenge so far, Dunn (35) — again without injured left-back Joseph Mills — hinted he might appear as a substitute to provide on-field guidance.

“I have started training a little bit more so it’s something we are thinking of,” said Dunn, who could follow in the footsteps of the previous player-manager Paul Dickov four years ago.

No new injury problems are presenting issues for Dunn, but left-back Mills has a long-standing ankle problem.

“Millsy has been struggling for weeks,” Dunn said. “He has had a couple of injections and is seeing the specialist again. He has been struggling with it and we are in a position to need everyone at 100-per-cent.”

To gain his first victory as manager, upbeat Dunn must overcome Athletic’s travel wobbles. Of the long hauls last season, there were defeats at Crawley, Yeovil, Leyton Orient and Gillingham. The furthest from home that Athletic picked up a win was Port Vale.

But Athletic are unbeaten on the road this season, with all five games drawn.

“There is a lot to be positive about, though I understand the fans’ frustrations with the draws,” Dunn said. “If we get that win, I believe we will go on a good run.

“We have some good, winnable home games coming up after this weekend so let’s hope that putting in a performance at Gillingham can stand us in good stead to get them.”