Gillingham Manager Gareth Ainsworth Undergoes Planned Heart Surgery; Assistant Richard Dobson Takes Temporary Charge

Gillingham manager Gareth Ainsworth, aged 52, is set to undergo planned heart surgery following the discovery of a cardiac issue during a routine League Managers Association health check. The surgery, described by Ainsworth as a routine procedure, will sideline him for a few weeks, during which assistant manager Richard Dobson will take interim charge of the team. Ainsworth has been praised for transforming Gillingham's fortunes since his appointment in March, leading them to a club-record unbeaten run before a recent defeat ended that streak. Club chairman Brad Galinson emphasized that Ainsworth's health is the top priority and expressed confidence in Dobson's ability to manage the team in Ainsworth's absence. The club and fans are encouraged to support Dobson and the team during this period. Ainsworth's upcoming absence coincides with Gillingham's League Two match against MK Dons.