GILLINGHAM have completed the signing of Southend United central defender Garry Richards for an undisclosed fee.

The 21-year-old has signed a two-and-a-half-year-contract and goes straight into the squad for Saturday's trip to Walsall.

Richards, who started his career at Colchester United, joined Southend in August and made 14 appearances at Roots Hall.

He is a player with a bright future in the game and is relishing the chance to play at Priestfield.

He said: "This is a fresh challenge for me and I can't wait to get started. This is a cracking opportunity at a good club.

"I wasn't getting as much football as I wanted at Southend, so I'm looking to come here and get straight into the side.

"I'm a no-nonsense old-fashioned central defender and I will show plenty of desire because I want to succeed."

Manager Mark Stimson added: "Garry is a player I have watched for a long time and I've been trying to sign him for a few years.

"I rate him highly and know that he will come in and complement our squad. He is an aggressive central defender and has a great hunger."