Gareth Ainsworth, manager of Gillingham, has recently returned to the club after successful heart surgery several weeks ago. As part of our health checks with the LMA, Ainsworth experienced some interesting questions about his routine. During this seemingly routine procedure, doctors noticed a heart murmur. Even though Ainsworth has spent the past few weeks off-campus, she’s back at home games now, in spirit if not on the field yet.
That surgery was a stunning success, enabling Ainsworth to make a slow but steady return and rejoin his once indomitable tenure with the club. While he may not be physically prepared to man the dugout just yet, he’s ever-present in his role in the team’s stewardship from on high. As you can imagine, Ainsworth has been busy directing practice, game planning and providing inspirational, pre-game and half-time speeches to his squad. His incisive management had never been more evident than in Gillingham’s 5-1 drubbing of promotion-chasing Bristol Rovers last week. The squad booked their first league victory in six tries!
Here’s what Ainsworth had to say about experiencing the game from the stands. He further expressed the deep bond he shares with the club and the club’s fans.
“It was more emotional than watching on the sofa because you can feel it.” – Gareth Ainsworth
During his recuperation, Ainsworth missed Gillingham’s four October league games. When he moved to the esports team, he proved his commitment to the team by making tough decisions from the stands that ultimately led to their recent success. The manager said he was so pleased by the wonderful care he received after his surgery. He called out his surgeon and staff at Spire Hospital Southampton, saying they were excellent every step of the way.
“The great thing is I am all fixed and have a great heart now,” – Gareth Ainsworth
For now, Ainsworth continues to stay sharp and avert distraction by keeping his eye on the manager’s wheelhouse. Clearly, of course, while he is excited to get back on the touchline soon, his health comes first.
“Right now it is about getting a result on Saturday and then the next step is getting back on that touchline.” – Gareth Ainsworth
Gillingham looks forward to continuing their League Two campaign through the rest of the season. Ainsworth’s palpable influence, even from a distance, has all the players and staff inspired and driven. He’s committed to making sure the team doesn’t fall short in terms of competitiveness and they don’t stop progressing after a banner year.
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