Stimson made more than 50 appearances for Southend as a player

Gillingham manager Mark Stimson fears the financial problems Southend United are experiencing could work against his side when they meet on Friday.

The Essex club avoided a winding up order on Tuesday, but they could go into administration next week, due to an unpaid tax bill.

But Stimson told BBC Radio Kent that it can often bring the best out in a team.

"From a player's point of view it might be a help to some of them because they're in the shop window," he said.

He added: "But I don't think it will phase anyone or put anyone off.

"We've just got to make sure we do our job, and if we do then i think we can get something."

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