Gillingham defender Shadrach Ogie has excelled in the early weeks of the season since his move from Leyton Orient

Conor Masterson’s presence on Gillingham’s substitute bench is a sign of how good newcomer Shad Ogie has played in the opening weeks of the season.

Masterson’s return on a permanent deal in the summer was hailed as a great coup for the Gills - manager Neil Harris reckoned he was arguably the best central defender in League 2 last term - but he’s been kept out of the team by another Irishman who signed on at Priestfield with a lot less fanfare.

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It’s still early days, but Ogie’s arrival from Leyton Orient for an undisclosed fee is looking like a great bit of business from the Gills. The 21-year-old has been a rock at the back, combining that strength with composure on the ball and a good range of passing.

Even former Gillingham captain Gabriel Zakuani, nicknamed ‘The Wall’, has recently commented on their similar traits.

Masterson’s time will come again but for now, Ogie’s in the limelight, and Gills manager Harris is delighted to have such competition between his central defenders.

Been keeping tabs on Ogie at Gills so confused to why O’s let him go. Would walk into that team now from what i’ve seen, Unit, literally like looking in the mirror