Stuart Gray is delighted with the capture of Gillingham defender Danny Jackman as his first new signing of the summer.

"I worked with Danny when he was a young professional at Aston Villa," said Gray.

"He knows how I work and I know how Danny works. I think Danny was unfortunate not to break into the first team at Villa but rather than sit there in the reserves he took the decision to move on and get his career moving.

"He has played a lot of games at his last 2 clubs and that shows he has made an impact and been a big influence at both Stockport and Gillingham. Despite only being 24 he has already played a lot of games in career. He has a good amount of experience for a young player.

"He was Player of the Year in his first season at Gillingham and I know they were very keen to keep him. There was also interest in him from elsewhere so I am very pleased to have added another quality player to the squad, following on from Chris Doig's signing last week. It's a sign that quality players recognise the ambition we have here and want to come and join us.

"I have been looking for an out and out left back and Danny fits the bill. He has a good work ethic, is a very good professional and trains well. He has been a popular figure at his previous clubs and I am sure that will be the case here. I am sure he will prove a quality addition. He is strong in the tackle and has plenty of pace about him.

"We are continuing our work to put together the best possible squad to match our ambitions for next season, a process that will be ongoing throughout the summer."

Jackman joins a growing number of players that now includes Mark Bunn, Mark Hughes, Bradley Johnson and Chris Doig, all of whom have signed contracts with the club until June 2009.

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