I want to get out there and do the business, says Gillingham striker Adam Birchall

Monday 16th July 2012

GILLINGHAM striker Adam Birchall says that the past year has been a major test after sitting out an entire season through injury.

The 27-year-old ruptured his cruciate ligament in a friendly at Welling United last July, just two weeks after joining the club from Dover Athletic and is still awaiting his competitive debut at the League Two club.

Birchall began his career at Arsenal, during which time he was capped by the Wales Under-21 side.

After a short spell on loan at Wycombe Wanderers, he moved to Mansfield Town in 2005. He then moved to Barnet but was released in 2009 by then boss Ian Hendon.

Andy Hessenthaler swooped to take him to Dover Athletic, where he started an incredible scoring streak, seeing him score 64 goals in 78 appearances at Crabble. Birchall told BBC Radio Kent: “It’s been really difficult and a massive test of my character and professionalism.

"I've put my head down and done everything I need to. The next stage is to get out there and do the business."

However, he is aware he must not push himself too hard in pre-season training in case he suffers a setback in his recovery.

"The key thing is not to be too wary of it," he continued.

"The surgeon has done a hell of a job and the medical staff are keeping the reins on me so I don't go too over the top.

"I can't wait to get on the pitch and put the shirt on.

"Fitness-wise, I'm pretty much usually where I am pre-season. I'm joining in with the boys on ball work but they're not tackling me quite as hard as they'd like to.

"You've got to be careful with these things."

Once he regains full fitness, the Maidstone born striker is eager to impress at Priestfield.

"When you play for a team, especially your local one, you want to play every game," Birchall said.

"Obviously that's down to performances and what the gaffer [Martin Allen] sees in games.

"Watching the boys was very difficult last year as I wanted to be out there and experiencing it with them. Hopefully this year will be different for me."

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