Game time vital for Lewis Gibbens to get back to best, says Boston United boss Craig Elliott

Craig Elliott is 'gutted' Lewis Gibbens hasn't been able to get vital game time at Boston United.

But the Pilgrims boss knows that featuring regularly for Worksop Town can help the 21-year-old defender get back to his best.

Gibbens missed almost a year of action after injuring his groin while on loan with the Pilgrims last season.

He joined the club on a permanent basis after leaving Mansfield Town in the summer but, despite featuring in October 3's 4-2 FA Cup victory over AFC Mansfield, he has fallen behind Scott Garner and Luke Shiels in the pecking order, not featuring in a match day squad since.

The situation has become something of a conundrum for Elliott, desperate to help Gibbens gain match fitness but reluctant to change a successful back line.

"I'm gutted or Gibbo. He just hasn't played enough football," Elliott said.

"There's no amount of training that can get him there so hopefully he can get games under his belt.

"We were both in agreement that he was going longer and longer without a game and the lad needs games of football.

"Our back four and keeper have been brilliant, our star performers so far."

However, after joining Craig Parry's Tigers on a season-long loan - which includes a recall clause after 28 days - the Pilgrims boss hopes the youngster can get back to his best.

"I'll keep in regular contact and he'll keep training with us as and when," he added.

"I really hope he can get a run of eight or nine games and then we'll see where he's at."

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