Gillingham have loaned out one of their young central defenders and he could see some action tonight.

Sam Gale has signed for Isthmian Premier Division side Hastings United on an initial 28-day loan.

He’s set to make his debut at Pilot Field tonight (Tuesday) in their home game with Carshalton Athletic. Both sides are on the fringes of the play-off places.

Gale, 19, has been playing B Team matches for the Gills this season.

He was on the bench for the Gills in the home League 2 match against Notts County as an unused substitute but hasn’t featured for the first team under new boss Stephen Clemence.

Hastings manager Chris Agutter is grateful to the Gills for allowing Gale to join them for a month.

He said: “A big thanks to Gillingham for trusting us in supporting Sam in the next steps on his football journey.

“Sam is big and powerful (and) will add more aggression and physicality to the side. We will now have even more presence in both boxes.”

Gale added: “I’m delighted to have signed for Hastings. It was a no-brainer after speaking with people who know the club. I can’t wait to get going.”