Harry Waldock has taken his chance in the Gillingham first team and manager Gareth Ainsworth is open to giving other youngsters an opportunity

More of Gillingham’s best young players could get a chance in the team before the end of this season.

Young midfielder Harry Waldock has impressed since coming into the side last month, and manager Gareth Ainsworth isn’t afraid to give others a chance in the team.

The Gills are heading for a mid-table finish this season, and Ainsworth could take the opportunity to see if any other young players can make an impact.

“There'd be no reason why we couldn't,” he said, when asked if he could give the youth a chance.

“I don't ever want to disrespect and belittle the league. You've got to field as strong a team as you can, but if I believe that one of my youngsters is better in the moment than some of my professionals, then I'll stick them in, without a doubt.

“I think the Gills fans would love it. They'd love to see that progression from our youth team.

“It's a really proud moment to have them. Harry's been brilliant, from where he started the season to where he is now.

“We've got some cracking boys in the academy. We really have. There's no reason they can't step up.

“I remember the Fulham [EFL Trophy] game here with Stan [Sargent] and Louis [Dayal], people like Cruz [Beszant] playing and scoring goals. We have definitely got some talent coming through, but having to rely on them, that's another thing, at this stage of the season.

“Maybe I will, but I won't give too much away. I know that the Gills fans would be really passionate to see some of their own playing out there.”

Gillingham’s academy side beat Bromley’s youngsters 6-1 earlier this week - Dayal scoring a first-half hat-trick in the thrashing. Bertie Oliver, Sullivan Booth and an own-goal added to the scoreline.

Recently-signed 18-year-old midfielder Donte Augustus -