Jackett steps down as Gillingham director of football

Kenny Jackett managed seven EFL clubs between 1996 and 2022

Kenny Jackett has stood down from his role as Gillingham's director of football for medical reasons.

The former Leyton Orient, Portsmouth, Wolverhampton Wanderers and Millwall manager was appointed to the role shortly after Brad Galinson completed his takeover in December 2022.

Jackett's arrivals coincided with an upturn in form last year as Gillingham moved away from the League Two relegation zone to finish 17th at the end of 2022-23, 12 points clear of the bottom two.

A club statement read: "In Kenny's absence over the past couple of months, Joe Comper has worked closely day-to-day with [manager] Mark Bonner and Andy Hessenthaler who continue to oversee first-team and recruitment matters respectively."

"I want to thank Brad and Shannon for the last couple of years, I've enjoyed working at Gillingham," Jackett added in a statement on the club's website.

"In Mark the club has a great guy managing the team and I'm sure he and the club will do well. I wish everyone the best of luck for the rest of the season."

Galinson added: "Kenny has been a calm and knowledgeable person to have around the club.

"His experience and contacts within the game have been invaluable and whilst we are sad to see him step down, Kenny's health is the most important thing and must be his sole focus.

"I'm grateful for what he has given to the club and I'm sure our fans will respect his and his family's privacy."