MIDFIELDER Kevin Maher is on the verge of signing for Gillingham until the end of the season after he trained with the club on Thursday.

The 31-year-old, who is still contracted to Southend, was given permission to train with the rest of the Gills squad.

Gillingham manager Mark Stimson is keen to add experience to his side.

He said: “Hopefully the deal should be tied up (on Thursday). He’s been given permission to train and then the two chairmen will be speaking to hopefully tie up a deal until the end of the season.

“Kevin has got experience. He’s been Southend’s captain for the past three or four years.

“He has won titles and tasted relegation so he knows what football is all about. He’ll also add composure and quality in the midfield area. His passing is decent and that might just help our forwards get more ball into feet.”