Gills head coach Ady Pennock has provided an update on the club's loanees
Gillingham's leading scorer Jay Emmanuel-Thomas is set to stay with the club for the rest of the season, head coach Ady Pennock confirmed today.Emmanuel-Thomas, who has scored 10 goals in all competitions for the Gills to date, joined on loan from QPR one day before the season start in August.
His parent club QPR have a recall option during this January transfer window, but Pennock does not believe this will be triggered.
"I spoke to [Rangers manager] Ian Holloway this week and Jay will be with us for the rest of the season," said Pennock. "QPR said they're not going to take him back; they're pleased with the experience he's getting here.
"He's a talented boy, a match winner. We've spoken to him, and the way we're looking to play should suit him, if he starts."
Centre-back Baily Cargill has returned to AFC Bournemouth following the expiry of his loan deal. The 21-year-old made 10 starts for the Gills during his time with the club, memorably scoring an sensational equaliser in the Boxing Day draw against Peterborough United.
Pennock added: "His loan has run out, he'd gone back by the time I got appointed.
"I'm speaking to another defender who I'm hoping to get in before Saturday's game against Oldham. However, it's not that easy; there are other clubs after this player. I think we need a bit more experience [in defence] more than anything else.
Reading goalkeeper Jonathan Bond will also not be returning to the MEMS Priestfield Stadium, having played eight times for the club between August and October. He injured his groin in the 1-1 draw against Charlton Athletic, and is returning to fitness with the Royals.
However, Pennock added that a new goalkeeper is likely to join the Gills in the coming days, saying: "I'm 99% sure we're going to sign a goalkeeper, we're waiting for the Ts to be crossed, but we're close. We'll have three goalkeepers, I want competition in every position."
Finally, striker Frank Nouble has left the club after his short-term contract ended. The 25-year-old scored three times in 13 appearances following his arrival in ME7 in early October.
"He had two or three training sessions with us, and after that I told him we wouldn't be renewing his contract," said Pennock. "He was great, a good pro."
Gillingham Football Club thank Baily, Jonathan and Frank for their service and commitment during their time with us.