Watford loan defender Travis Akomeah made his Football League debut for Gillingham against Barnet after Andy Smith missed out –Manager Gareth Ainsworth comments on Armani Little’s suspension

Gillingham’s defensive injury issues led to a first Football League appearance for Watford loan man Travis Akomeah on Saturday.

Akomeah, 19, has had to wait patiently for his chance to make his league debut, and he did it at Priestfield with 20 minutes of their game against Barnet remaining.

Gills boss Gareth Ainsworth revealed that Andy Smith had taken a knock in the previous match, and with fellow central defenders Shad Ogie and Conor Masterson also out injured, it meant Akomeah was handed his chance.

Ainsworth said: “Andy's been a real stalwart for me at the back, but he picked up a knock in the last game.

“We're going to have to assess Andy and see. Hopefully, we’ll get him back for next Saturday.

“Travis Akomeah stepped in and took his opportunity.”

Akomeah’s four previous appearances for the Gills came in cup fixtures, with three EFL Trophy starts and an appearance off the bench at Newport in the FA Cup.

The defender is on loan until January from Watford, who signed him earlier this year from Chelsea.

Gillingham’s manager has said they hope to have defender Conor Masterson back available next month, while Ogie and Smith will also be looking for a return to the squad soon, which would mean Akomeah’s chances of more action may be limited.

Ainsworth likes the look of the defender and spoke recently about his prospects.

“The profile of that boy is unbelievable,” he said.

“He fits the bill, he's got the size, he's got pace, he's got a lot. I think Trav is learning to defend against proper men, proper established players, and what he needs is to experience some game time.

“Trav's made the step to a pro now, he's definitely a professional footballer, he's definitely got a career, just how high he goes is up to him. He's