by Alex Hoad

David Wright was ‘bitterly disappointed’ a loan move back to Gillingham did not materialise, but boss Martin Allen says he will probably rekindle the deal in January.

The 32-year-old Crystal Palace midfielder, pictured, impressed during a seven-game loan deal at Priestfield but despite the two clubs reaching an agreement over his return, Allen revealed the paperwork was not completed in time to meet the 5pm deadline on Thursday.

Asked if he would revisit the deal in January, Allen said: "Probably, yes.

"David Wright is a good player, we did try and get him but the paperwork didn’t get done in time so we have to deal with it, get on with it, take it on the chin and move to the next stage.

"Of course I’m disappointed but we tried our best and it didn’t get done in time. I haven’t actually spoken to him but he’s bitterly disappointed."

It is understood that appeals to the Football League to get the transfer rubber-stamped as late as Friday morning were unsuccessful.