Gills winger Chris Whelpdale could face a spell on the sidelines after a tackle in the 2-1 win at Crawley split his testicles open.
The former Peterborough man was given treatment for the injury, which occurred late on in the game, and is now a doubt for Friday’s game with Dagenham.
Gills manager Andy Hessenthaler said after the game: “The tackle on Chris Whelpdale, he’s probably going to have five stitches in his testicles believe it or not; it’s ripped his testicles open.
“It’s absolutely disgusting, it was a shocking challenge and worthy of a red card.
“It’s a horrific injury and it’ll be pretty sore and I’m sure his wife won’t be too happy about that tonight either.”
The 22-year-old has scored four goals in 22 appearances since moving to the Priestfield on a permanent basis in the summer. Matt Fish is also doubtful for the Dagenham game after limping off in the victory at the Broadfield Stadium.
With Andy Frampton and Lewis Montrise having missed the trip to Crawley through injury and midfielders Charlie Lee and Luke Rooney suspended for the trip to Essex, Hessenthaler might be forced to bring some youngsters into his sixteen man squad.
On Tuesday, Crawley’s David Hunt apologised for the tackle that damaged Whelpdale’s tackle tweeting:
“@chriswhelpdale apologies for the tackle last night. Never intended on injuring you & hope you’re ok. Heard the news this morning. Get well”
“Can you apologise 2 Whelpdale for me Didnt realise how bad his injury was. Genuinely went for the ball but doesnt make up fair what happened”
Whelpdale was gracious enough to reply to Hunt and his colleague Sergio Torres who had enquired about his situation, tweeting:
“@DavidJHunt @sergio_torres08 cheers boys! I’m all gd thanks! These things happen,don’t worry about it. Enjoy training today!!!
“I’m in good hands, my Mrs is looking after me!”
The phenomenom continued throughout Tuesday afternoon as Whelpdale’s situation went national with the Gills midfielder acknowledging all the messages of support by tweeting: