Gillingham are continuing contract negotiations with left-back Joe Martin, but chairman Paul Scally admitted that the two parties are "some way apart."

Gills boss Martin Allen was keen to get the player on a new deal as the current one expires at the end of this season. And in January he will be able to speak freely with any interested teams.

But Mr Scally, speaking on Friday, said: "Nothing has been concluded. Joe seems to be happy with the football club and we are happy with him but we are some way apart right now, between discussions with myself, Andy Hessenthaler and the player’s agent."

Martin signed a two-year deal in May 2011, having joined the Gills for the end of the previous campaign on non-contract terms.

Since his arrival he has been a regular starter for the Gills and the 24-year-old has now made 76 appearances for the club.