Southampton midfielder Callum Slattery has joined League One side Gillingham on loan for the rest of the season.
The 21-year-old arrives as the Gills’ second recruit this window and their second from the Saints after Tyreke Johnson joined last week.
Gillingham Sign Callum Slattery On Loan From Southampton
Slattery Replaces the Departed Josh Eccles and Scott Robertson
The talented midfielder spent time at Chelsea before making the breakthrough at Southampton. Slattery’s arrival gives Gills manager Steve Evans some much-needed options after seeing players depart the club.
Scott Robertson and Josh Eccles have been recalled by their parent clubs, leaving Gillingham light in midfield. Robertson has returned to Celtic because of their coronavirus issues while Eccles has been recalled by Coventry City.
Slattery fills the void alongside his Saints teammate Tyreke Johnson. He also links up with another Saints loanee in Tom O’Connor. Slattery’s arrival continues the Gills excellent relationship with Southampton.
What Slattery Can Bring
As well as representing Southampton at several youth levels, Slattery has also represented England at youth level becoming a staple in the midfield area. He has featured sparingly for the Saints under Ralph Hasenhuttl but the Saints boss highly rates Slattery.
Slattery has joined the Gills hoping to get some much-needed game time and enhance his game. He has some EFL experience playing in the Papa John Trophy for Southampton youth sides.
The midfielder is available to make his debut against Accrington Stanley this weekend. The Gills are looking to ensure they are not dragged into the relegation battle. Gillingham are just five points clear of the relegation zone despite sitting 14th in League One.
Speaking to the Gillingham website about his new signing, manager Steve Evans said: “Callum is an excellent addition to the group. He is very highly thought of at Southampton and he is here to further his education.”
“There is no doubt he is a talented boy and that is the reason he had lots of clubs keen to secure him on loan.”
Main Photo
