PLAYER-MANAGER Andy Hessenthaler has warned that Gillingham risk annihilation in the Worthington Cup tonight at Chelsea unless they sharpen their passing.

The Gills boss, who described Saturday's performance in the 1-1 draw at Grimsby as probably the team's worst of the season, wants no repeats at Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea have rattled up 15 goals in their last four games against Gillingham and Hessenthaler is keen to make amends, but knows the key to success lies in the ability to retain possession.

In a stark warning he said: "If we don't pass the ball better against Chelsea then they will run us ragged. It's important that we retain the ball. They'll let us have the ball because they're a Premier League side. It's a matter of how we use it."

Chelsea striker Jimmy Floyd-Hasselbaink is out with a groin strain but last night surprisingly declared himself fit for Saturday's home game against Birmingham.

Stories were circulating today that striker Eidur Gudjohnsen has been ruled out by an ankle injury and that youngster Carlton Cole will probably partner the evergreen Gianfranco Zola in attack. Marcel Desailly and Emanuel Petit are also out.

Providing he satisfies the manager of his fitness, Gills striker Marlon King will be on the bench tonight, but who starts in attack will not be known until kick-off.

Tommy Johnson, who looked lively after replacing Guy Ipoua at Grimsby and created Mark Saunders' last minute equaliser, could be in starting line-up as Hessenthaler made no secret of his dissatisfaction with the front two of Mamady Sidibe and Ipoua.

The tie will be settled on the night by extra-time and penalties, if necessary.