Gillingham coach Steve Lovell has demanded more from midfielder Josh Pritchard.

The former Manchester United youth player didn’t feature for the Gills in their Johnstone’s Paint Trophy clash with Bristol City.

“I have had a word with Josh,” said under-18 manager Lovell – part of the caretaker management team.

“I think he is a good player but I need more from him.

“We need players here who are going to dig in, roll their sleeves up and have a go. I am not saying hasn’t, but he has to do it on a more consistent level, because I think he is a good player but he hasn’t showed it enough.”

Pritchard began the season with an injury and has struggled to hold down a regular place in the team. He has made 18 appearances this season, with almost half of those from the bench.

Lovell added: “I watched a lot of games here in the last month or so. When he has come on I thought he hasn’t done what we want him to do. But he can do it.”