by Luke Cawdell

Gillingham boss Martin Allen has revealed that he is trying to extend left-back Joe Martin’s stay at Priestfield.

Martin's current deal expires at the end of the season and Allen is keen to keep the defender, pictured, at the club on a long-term contract.

Allen said: "Joe is a fantastic player and since I have been here I have been so impressed with him. We are in negotiations about him signing a new contract for the club.

"He trains hard, he works hard, his attitude is to improve and I think Joe is a great player. Andy Hessenthaler is dealing with it and hopefully very soon he will sign a new contract."

Martin has been on the sidelines with a broken hand and had a scan on his wrist on Thursday as the club monitor his progress towards a return to action.

Allen said: "He has been working with the fitness coach on various parts of his game that we think can improve and when you see him running at the training ground you think 'what an athlete'. He is an important part of how we play."