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Gillingham's Andy Hessenthaler thinks Ashley Miller is showing more promise than Wolverhampton Wanderers' Matthew Jarvis

Young debutant Ashley Miller keeps close control of the ball
Young debutant Ashley Miller keeps close control of the ball

Gillingham manager Andy Hessenthaler believes that young forward Ashley Miller is showing more promise than Matt Jarvis did at the same age.

Hessenthaler handed both players their senior football debuts and has seen enough of his latest young star to believe he could have a huge future.

Talking about Miller (pictured right) in this week’s live Q&A session, Hessenthaler was asked to compare the two players.

"Having been able to work with Matt Jarvis as well, Ashley is potentially going to be a better player," said the Gills manager.

Jarvis made his debut for Hessenthaler’s Championship team in November 2003 and has since become a key member of Wolverhampton Wanderers’ Premiership team. Impressive performance in the top flight have pushed him to the verge of a full England call up.


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Miller has attracted attention from many of the top English clubs already, including Manchester United, Arsenal, Tottenham, Aston Villa and Everton, but has agreed to join Gillingham’s two-year scholarship programme next season.

"Every day training can only make him a better player," said Hessenthaler, who has been monitoring the youngster closely.

Miller, who attends Dover Grammar School, first came under the spotlight when in October the Gills included him in their squad for the trip to Northampton. Days later he made his debut in the League 2 home match against Wycombe and has since been part of the matchday squad on several occasions.

"We just want him around the first team, it is good for his education," said Hessenthaler.

Chris Palmer
Chris Palmer

During the hour-long session Hessenthaler also revealed that midfielder Chris Palmer (pictured left) is unlikely to be fit for the remainder of the season.

Palmer was a prominent figure in Hessenthaler’s team at the start of the season and netted five goals but a knee injury has kept him out since November.

Asked whether Palmer would figure again this season, the Gills boss said: "He is working very well and the leg is getting stronger. He is getting fitter but for this season I would say no unfortunately."

If you haven't already seen Monday night's Q&A session click here for a replay.

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