The 33-year-old broke the tibia and fibula bones in his leg during Saturday's 2-1 win over Preston.

"I wouldn't have thought we would see him in action again this season but you can never tell," Gills boss Andy Hessenthaler told the club's website.

"We will miss him because he can play in a number of positions."

Saunders had been switched from midfield to right-back in the midweek win over Leeds after Nyron Nosworthy suffered a groin injury.

Hessenthaler opted to keep Saunders in defence against Preston because of his experience and combative nature.

The Gills boss added: "It's a sad day because he's a great lad and a great professional.

"As much as I am pleased with the win, that incident has overshadowed it. Our thoughts are with Mark and his family at this time."