Gillingham have completed a double-swoop, bringing in Tom O’Connor on loan from Premier League side Southampton, then adding Olly Lee on a similar deal from SPFL side Heart of Midlothian.
Lee is a familiar name to those who study lower league football, having previously been with Luton Town at this level. He joins on a six-month loan deal and will likely command a first-team place with the Gills, who are without a win this season.
The 28-year-old is a former West Ham trainee and the son of former Newcastle and England midfield Rob Lee.
O’Connor is the second Southampton man to join the club, following in the footsteps of Alfie Jones. Manager Steve Evans confirmed he’d eyed O’Connor for a while but been rebuffed in his previous advances.
“We approached the club at the same time we tried to do something with Alfie Jones but Southampton wanted to keep him inside the door for a little bit longer,” said the Scot.
“We have been patient and I’m delighted he has now signed. He’s strong, physical, creative and can play anywhere on the left hand side.”
As for Lee, Evans cited his relationship with Craig Levein as key to securing the deal.
“Olly has been outstanding during his time at both Luton and Hearts. He is attack minded and can play on the right side of the diamond or at the top.
“He scored a cracker against Hibernian last season; I have an excellent relationship with Hearts boss Craig Levein and when he said he was available I quickly made contact.”
Gills fans have been reacting to the double-swoop on Twitter with renewed hope that it might kickstart their season.
https://twitter.com/jhawks200/status/1167069383534841858
https://twitter.com/LiamWard86/status/1167075146802356224
https://twitter.com/WYorkshireGills/status/1167071155288727552
https://twitter.com/Alex_GFC_/status/1167067700549623810
https://twitter.com/AGraizevsky/status/1167041056732524544
https://twitter.com/Danwell70357773/status/1167040916869255169
https://twitter.com/TheFirstEleven1/status/1167042225429237760
