by Andrew Gidley

Charlie Allen has given an insight into his on and off the field relationship with his father and Gills boss Martin.

The 20-year-old midfielder followed him to Priestfield in the summer after working together at Notts County last season.

He said: "The two are very separate, and I think all the boys will stand by me and agree, at work he is my gaffer and at home he is my dad.

"He has always overseen my development and growth as a player, so I think we have got it nailed on, but there is always room for improvement in anything."

Allen jnr (pictured) also believes Gills have the players to make his dad’s squad rotation idea work.

He said: "It’s brilliant in a squad that wins, and we can’t complain.

"Everyone’s happy and it’s three more points. Luckily for me I played 90 minutes (at Barnet), but we’ll see who plays next Saturday.

"We can all do it, play every position, because we are all good enough so it’s not a big deal.

"The aim is to keep on improving and see what the manager and coaching staff say. Hopefully for now I am doing alright, and the fans will take me under their wing, and I carry on doing well for the rest of the season."

Allen was also full of praise for new strength and conditioning coach James Russell for making sure the players perform on hot afternoons like the one experienced on the opening day of the season against Bradford and again at Barnet on Saturday.

"The coaches are constantly shoving drinks down our throats, telling us we are going to need it," said Allen.

"But James is top notch, doing his best to keep us energised and happy in games.

"I have never known such a meticulous man. Some people might say he’s nagging but he does his job, and you could see against Barnet how fit every player looked."

Do you think Allen has made an impact on the Gills side? Have your say below.