YOUNG centre back Leon Johnson has praised his Gillingham team-mates for welcoming him into the first team at Priestfield.

The 21-year-old, who joined on a free transfer from Southend in the summer, caught the eye with an assured performance for the Gills in their 3-1 victory at Bradford City on Saturday.

However, after making his fifth appearance of the season, Johnson is determined to keep his feet on the ground preferring to pay compliment to his fellow players instead.

He said: "Chris Hope is always talking to me. Before the game he gives me advice, which is a brilliant. It helps a lot. The boss and the captain Paul Smith are the same. They talk to me, which helps my confidence but it’s not just them. Everyone rallies around the youngsters who come into the team.”

Johnson added: “They are quick to give you a pat on the back when you do well and if you make a mistake they won’t shout at you. They will advise you what to do next time."

After six leagues games without a win before the Bradford game, the Gills were in danger of being dragged into a relegation fight but Johnson maintains they were always confident of ending the poor run.

He said: “The confidence wasn’t dented because we all know we're a good side and it was a matter of time before we got a decent result."