Coach Gareth Ainsworth announces heart surgery: when he will return.

Gareth Ainsworth will temporarily leave football due to heart surgery

According to The Sun: Gareth Ainsworth, the manager of the 'Gillingham' team, announced his decision to temporarily step away from football due to the need for heart surgery, but assures that he will return 'in a few weeks'.

In a calm message to fans, the 52-year-old coach shared that the issue was discovered during routine medical examinations of the League Managers Association (LMA) earlier this year.

Ainsworth, who is valued by supporters for his charismatic personality, assured that the surgery is not urgent and has been planned.

“I had an LMA medical check in May, and some issues with my heart were found. I need to have surgery this week. It sounds dramatic, but it is actually a routine procedure,” he shared.

He also called on fans to support the team during his absence and expressed full trust in his assistant Richard Dobson.

“Support Dobbo and the team — they'll be fine. I’ll be gone for a few weeks and will return soon,” Ainsworth noted.

Dobson has been by Ainsworth's side throughout his career and has become part of one of the longest duos in the EFL league.

The chairman of 'Gillingham', Brad Gallison, confirmed that Ainsworth's health is a priority, and expressed confidence in Dobson's abilities, who will lead the team during the coach’s rehabilitation.

“We have known about Gareth's surgery for a few weeks. He was concerned about when to do it, but we just wanted him to get it done as soon as possible,” added Gallison.

Ainsworth, known for his passion on the field and his distinctive long hairstyle, has had a vibrant journey in football. A former winger for 'Preston', 'Lincoln', 'QPR' and 'Wycombe', he gained popularity among fans and even performed in a rock band called Cold Blooded Hearts.

“I had to choose between music and football, but I decided to combine both passions,” he had said before.

Ainsworth's time off will be a test for 'Gillingham', but the team has a reliable assistant in Richard Dobson. The football community eagerly awaits the quick return of the coach to work, as his contribution to the team and connection with the fans are irreplaceable.

Meanwhile, supporters of 'Gillingham' can confidently support the team under Dobson's guidance while Ainsworth recovers from surgery. Let this be a new chapter in his career that promises to be no less interesting and exciting.