Gillingham manager Gareth Ainsworth confirms that Conor McManus is fit to play for Republic of Ireland under-21s and will miss the trip to York City – Boss gives possible return date for captain Liam Gordon

Conor McManus has recovered from injury in time to represent his country and will miss Gillingham’s weekend trip to York City.

McManus had taken over the left wing-back role following Kadeem Harris’ injury earlier in the season but picked up a knock shortly after being called up for international duty with Republic of Ireland’s under-21s, forcing him to miss Gillingham’s game against Bristol Rovers last Saturday.

It has not stopped him playing for his country, however, and he’ll miss this week’s game against York City and next weekend’s match with Newport County at Priestfield.

Gills boss Gareth Ainsworth said: “The knock was enough to keep him out of last week's game, but probably not enough to keep him out of this week's game.

“What a cracking lad. He didn't want to let the boys down [last week]. I said to him, if you play and get injured and you're out for six weeks, you're letting everyone down more than missing one game because of precaution.

“He was very honest about not being 100 per cent and I need that from my boys.

“Hopefully he goes and flies for Ireland and we'll miss him definitely when he's away.

“He's obviously put the marker down for where he is in the team as well, and his energy has been ridiculous.

“His metres covered and high-speed running, wow, they're just through the roof this boy. To add to that, he's learning, scoring goals and making tackles and winning duels.

“It’s a real dream to work with Conor. Again, another that probably has been thrust into the first team before his time and that's great for him.

“It’s a massively proud moment to represent your country and we should all be proud of that.”

Bradley Dack and Ethan Coleman both got minutes in Tuesday night’s EFL Trophy game against Cambridge