GILLINGHAM'S new signing John Hills says he is impressed by what he's heard about the club's future plans.

Gills have clinched the signing of Blackpool Player of the Year Hills on a two-year contract. The 25-year-old former Everton left-back scored 20 goals in his 167 games for Blackpool.

He is a straight replacement for Roland Edge, who left the club earlier this month after failing to agree terms for a new contract.

Hills said: "Gillingham have established themselves as a progressive club and I'm sure that will continue. I've been impressed with the set-up and what the manager has to say about the club's future plans."

He becomes the club's second close-season signing following last week's capture of former Burnley centre-back Ian Cox.

After signing Hills, player-manager Andy Hessenthaler set his sights on strengthening the midfield. He confirmed: "We're looking for someone who gets forward and scores goals."

Hessenthaler hopes to persuade influential midfielder Simon Osborn to sign a new contract on his return from holiday next week.