Ainsworth: Northampton have players 'above the level' - but 'no reason' we can't beat them

Gillingham and Northampton are the only League Two sides yet to score this season and both will be chasing a first win when they meet in Kent on Saturday afternoon.

Ainsworth said: “There’s no reason that the boys I put out can’t go and win this game because they’re a good side when they’re all playing well.

“Northampton have some players above the level, they really have, and I’m looking forward to having a good battle with Hoggy. He’s gone in there and changed the way they are playing. They’re trying something a bit different but I think they’ve adapted quite well to it.

“Northampton are a very decent team but so are Gillingham! We will hopefully be a touch opponent and create as many chances as we did against Walsall because we had enough to win two games of football. I’m looking forward to seeing our first goal of the season hit the back of the net.”

Ainsworth has confirmed that goalkeeper Ollie Wright is in line to make his debut this weekend, adding: “You should see him on Saturday. He’s a cracking lad and he’s champing at the bit. We gave him an extra week because of his thigh and we didn’t want to take any risks.”

Winger Kadeem Harris and defender Liam Gordon will be absent after both picked up long-term injuries.

“It was a good point at Fleetwood but the downer was losing Kadeem because it’s a massive injury,” said Ainsworth. “It’s unlucky but these things happen and I’m happy with the performances and the chances we’re creating we just need to put some of them in.

“But the boys are in a good place and I’m looking forward to Saturday.”