Chris Whelpdale has spoken out for the first time after suffering a split scrotum in a challenge on Boxing Day.

The Gillingham winger had to receive five stitches after the challenge with Crawley's David Hunt but is surprisingly hoping to be fit for Friday night's game at Dagenham and Redbridge.

"I've just been out and bought a jockstrap, so I'll pad it all up and I should be okay to play," the 24-year-old told the Gills website.

"I had a bit of a shock when I saw it but when it initially happened I thought it was just a normal whack in the area, but then three or four minutes later it was hurting.

"I did have a look and that was when I was a bit shocked."

Manager Andy Hessenthaler joked of his wife's unhappiness at the injury but Whelpdale says she was sympathetic.

"I think she felt a bit sorry for me, but she did have a bit of a giggle as well," he added.

"There's been a lot of banter from the lads as well, but they've all been cool."

Whelpdale moved to the South East coast this summer from Peterborough and has scored four goals in 22 appearances.