Gillingham boss Mark Stimson is prepared for the fans' backlash after the club's FA Cup exit to Accrington.

Carl Marston

Gillingham boss Mark Stimson is prepared for the fans' backlash after the club's FA Cup exit to Accrington.

The Gills have the worst away record in the Coca-Cola Football League and slipped to defeat against the mid-table League 2 side on Tuesday night.

Stimson, pictured, has battled to win over the fans ever since taking charge at Priestfield in November 2007 and he won't be letting criticism from recent results get to him.

"That's part and parcel and I've had that since the day I've been here," he said.

"It doesn't change my view. I've always said there is only one man who will change my position at the club and that's the chairman.

"Modern-day fans have a lot to do with it and a lot to say with it.

"I totally understand their frustration because they love the club, it's their club and they'll do what they think is best for their football club.

"I will do the best for Gillingham Football Club as long as I remain in charge. I may not be a supporter of Gillingham Football Club but I have serious pride and I hate losing football matches.

"As hard as it's hurting them, it's hurting me as bad because I don't like losing.

"If we do get a few moans and boos, I've had it before and I'll have it again. It's about how you get out of it and the only way to do that is to roll your sleeves up, stand up and be counted - and be honest."

"We've got to take that defeat on the chin and the one thing Saturday will be is all hell for leather.

"Colchester aren't going to come and start passing the ball around. They're going to ask our defenders big questions and ask our goalkeeper if he's brave enough to come out and get involved.

"The way their manager sets up his team is direct and successful. We have to be ready for that and it's a game that the players have to be on their toes for from the start."

The Gills haven't played at home since Boxing Day, when they lost for only the second time in League 1 at Priestfield, with a 1-0 defeat against Brentford.

They could be without midfielder Curtis Weston, pictured above, as he picked up a hip injury against Accrington, while winger Andy Barcham may also be restricted to the bench after returning from a knee injury.

Garry Richards and Simon Royce are both back in training but the Colchester game could come too soon for the pair.