Manager Neil Harris says he’s “one million per cent” behind the arrivals of Kenny Jackett and Andy Hessenthaler at Gillingham.

Harris is a long-time friend of both men and doesn’t feel threatened by their appointments - far from it.

“I endorse them coming in,” he said. “(I was) kept up to speed the whole way through the process, was asked my opinion on both guys and gave glowing references. I know both guys really well.”

Gills’ new director of football Jackett has enjoyed promotions with Swansea, Millwall - with Harris in his team - and Wolves. Head of recruitment Hessethaler played alongside Harris previously at the Gills.

Harris said: “I know both guys and anyone who is thinking that something is under hand I cannot be any clearer, I am one million per cent supportive of those guys being in the building because they are really good football men.

“Kenny has managed for a period of time and he wants to do something different in his life, this is a great role for him. He has been a source of knowledge and support for me during my eight years managing, especially as a younger manager, and that is not going to change now, he is here to help.

“Having those guys in is a massive help. I have two guys that know a hell of a lot of players.

“Kenny is a really good guy, family man, he is assured, he is honest. His knowledge is ridiculous in the game and how he is thought of. He wants to pursue a different avenue and this is a brilliant position for him, and I think he is going to be really good at it.

“Hessy has managed a long time as well, he has just come out of Dover after a tough period and he wants to go down a different route.

“(I have) no fears or anything about them wanting to manage, or take my job, they are here to help the football club and support me. I’m delighted.

“When I took over I talked about the infrastructure of the football club having to change and these are two great appointments for the football club, in my opinion. I have worked with both guys at different levels and they are honest, reliable football men that can only help the football club move forward and support me.”

Creating a proper structure at the football club was one of Harris’ main aims when he came to the club. Gillingham now have the funds to make that happen.

Harris is thrilled to see things changing for the good.

He said: “It has been a tough period, on and off the pitch. I know people have an opinion on the job I have done and I am not here to argue with anyone on results.

"This is different now. The infrastructure of the club is so important and we live in a catchment area with an academy that should stretch the whole of Kent and into London as well, we need to look at that.

“Kenny is coming in to help and support, getting us the tools to make us a better group. Recruitment is huge. All that matters in the window is recruitment, if we get that right then we get results right on the pitch.

“Kenny and Hess in the building are hugely positive and should be taken like that by the fanbase.”