GILLINGHAM'S search for a creative midfielder continues after manager Andy Hessenthaler admitted that the John Moncur deal was “a total no-go”.

The Priestfield boss has been trying desperately to bring in new blood so he can shake up his struggling team.

Veteran West Ham midfielder Moncur, 36, was a top target but Hessenthaler said: “We won't take the interest any further. He's obviously someone we would have liked to have brought in but it's very difficult at the moment, especially with the way West Ham are now that Paolo di Canio is injured. It's a total no-go."

Hessenthaler still has one or two other irons in the fire. He said: “Nicky Southall, who we've had here before, is one player we could try for again and we are still pursuing Wayne Brown too."