Gillingham have signed Leyton Orient defender Shadrach Ogie on a permanent deal for an undisclosed fee

Gillingham have bolstered their defence with the signing of Leyton Orient’s Shadrach Ogie.

The 21-year-old left-sided centre-half previously played on loan at Dover under Gills’ head of recruitment Andy Hessenthaler and with their director of football Kenny Jackett at Leyton Orient.

Gillingham manager Neil Harris said: “He's competitive, he's quick, aggressive, left-footed. He complements our defensive players really well, he has a good passing range, so we are really pleased.

"We have had to be patient, he is ready to go and will be in the matchday squad on Saturday. We look forward to working with him."

The newcomer will be available for Gillingham’s friendly match at Dartford on Saturday.

Ogie, who was born in the Republic of Ireland and has represented his country at youth level, joined Orient from the Hornchurch youth academy.

He had loan spells under Hessenthaler at Dover and then Aldershot in the National League.

Orient gave him his League 2 debut in August 2021 and he went onto be a regular in the side that season but was limited to just 15 appearances for them during the last campaign – one which saw his club win the title.

Gills boss Harris has been seeking a left-sided centre-half all summer, which would give him extra flexibility, with more scope to play three central defenders when required.

Harris is still looking for a winger and a striker.