By Luke Cawdell

Andy Hessenthaler wants new signing Lewis Montrose to come out of his shell this season with Gillingham.

The young midfielder (pictured) played 36 league games for Wycombe on the way to promotion from League 2 last season and fans got a glimpse of his class with his solo effort in the 5-2 win at Dartford on Friday night.

Gills boss Hessenthaler believes Montrose, who was used in a defensive midfield role at Wycombe last season, can be a force going forward in the coming campaign.

Hessenthaler said: "Everyone saw the first real insight into Lewis Montrose. He has been chomping at the bit to get goals.

"He played for Wycombe last season and was told to sit in there and be like Jack Payne but with his athleticism and his size he is a wasted player if you are not going to think about getting him forward.

"He is such a fit boy, he gets up and down and I am excited by him."

Hessenthaler turned to former Gills boss Peter Taylor for advice before signing Montrose and all the reports were positive.

"I was quite surprised Wycombe let him go but it’s to our benefit," said Hessenthaler. "He is a good age and can only get better for me.

"For his size he needs to do better in the air but he wants to score goals. He is going to be a real find."

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