Gillingham head coach Ady Pennock has been impressed by young midfielder Ben Chapman since day one.

Pennock’s first scouting mission at Priestfield, once he had got the job, was to see his own under-18 team against Sheffield Wednesday in an FA Youth Cup game.

Chapman stood out and the 18-year-old appears to have worked his way ahead of several more experienced players in the squad.

Chapman impressed when he came on against Ipswich for the last 15 minutes.

Pennock said: “I went to watch him on the first day, at Sheffield Wednesday, and he really shone in that game.

“He is a gifted boy. I don’t want to put too much pressure on him but he has a very good future.”

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He may still be a way off starting, however, and is one of several players that Pennock feels could benefit from a loan move out of Priestfield.

Finn O’Mara, Noel Mbo and Aaron Simpson are all lacking in game-time, along with Oldaker.

"We are lucky to have these young lads and they are doing well,” Pennock said.

“I do believe if we can get them out on loan it will toughen them up a bit, or they stay here and they can fight for a place."

Gillingham are back in action on Tuesday night against Patro Eisden.

Follow kentonlinegills on twitter for match updates. Reaction and report up later.