how can i fix my transit gearbox problem. the gearstick just floats around?

i have a 2001 transit 260swb front wheel drive. i have just bought it a month ago and i noticed it you to crunch going into 1st and reverse gears and there was a slight leak on the bottom of gearbox where to gasket is really slightly leaking. anyway took it to my local garage and they told me i need a new clutch slave cylinder and 2 gear selector cable but they said keep driving it untill it goes completly which i did a now i was at work today and whent to put into 1st gear and there was nothing there atall the gearstick could move in a full circle there wasnt even a fill like it wanted to go in gear there was just like there was nothing there please please could sumone give me sum advise as i dont know alot about these thanks