Gillingham have handed youngster Josh Hare a one-year professional contract with an option for a second.

Hare, 18, has impressed manager Martin Allen with his recent performances for the development side.

On Tuesday afternoon he helped Mark Patterson’s young side to a 3-2 win over Dagenham where he played in the defensive midfield role.

Hare (pictured) has also been involved with the first team this season and was an unused substitute in the recent home game against Cheltenham.

Gills boss Allen said: "Josh has been outstanding in the last two development games in the holding central midfield role.

"He listens, he learns and is a sponge for information. The last run of this ladder is the hardest to climb and requires a commitment to get bigger, stronger, faster and more powerful and to be a good athlete."

Hare was contracted to the club as a third year scholar, with a pro deal set to kick in next season, but Allen has already seen enough to make his move early.

"This boy is very well behaved, conscientious and caring and a pleasure to work with," added the Gills boss.

Picture: Barry Goodwin