Hessenthaler calls time at Gills

Tuesday 17th January 2006

Andy Hessenthaler has ended his nine-and-a-half-year tenure at Gillingham following Saturday's 3-0 triumph against Swindon Town.

The former Gills boss and midfielder decided to call it a day at Priestfield Stadium to take up a fresh challenge.

"I have had some fantastic times here but felt it was time to move on," the 39-year-old told the club's website.
"I have nothing lined up but am not going to retire from playing as I feel I can still do a job for somebody."
Hessenthaler spent four years at the helm before quiting his post in 2004 with Gillingham bottom of the Championship table.
More recently, Hessenthaler had remained a player at Priestfield under the management of Ronnie Jepson.
Hessenthaler added: "Hopefully I can get a club and have a run out until the end of the season. I would like to get back into coaching or managing - that is where I see my future.
"I leave this club on great terms. There is hopefully a testimonial in the next few weeks so I will be able to pull the Gillingham shirt on one more time.
"Becoming the manager of the football club was fantastic. I have had some great times and I will never forget this club as it is close to my heart."
Hessenthaler joined the Gills from Watford in 1996 and has made over 300 league appearances. He also had a loan spell at Hull last season.

Meanwhile, fans at four Kent non-league clubs, Dartford, Dover Athletic, Margate and Sittingbourne have written on their fans' forums saying they would like the former Dartford midfielder to play for their clubs until the end of the season.