Martin Allen is keen to bolster his threadbare squad but the Gillingham boss admits finances dictate.

He handed teenage defender Stephen Butcher his debut in Saturday’s League 1 opening day 1-0 defeat to Colchester after an early injury to right-back Matt Fish left him low on resources.

Just 16 fit senior pros were available for selection at the weekend – and included in his team was transfer-listed midfielder Charlie Lee.

Allen said: “We are looking to add a few extra players. The development squad are coming through well but it is still going to be some time for them to come up and play.

“In an ideal world, yes (we would like to add) but we have budgets to adhere to and we have to work closely to stick with that.”

Allen may turn to the transfer market this week to bring in a loan player, if finances allow.
Fish, who had been struggling with a knee problem all week, is set to undergo a scan on his knee on Monday.

Allen was hoping that the departure of Lee to Southend would free up funds in his budget to add new signings but the deal to Southend never materialised and Lee ended up starting against Colchester.

Youngsters Harry Grant and Tom Derry are expected to sign one-year contracts this week. Grant played for the Gills in the final game of last season at Burton while ex-Charlton forward Derry arrived at the club in the summer.