Gills trial Spanish defender

GILLINGHAM have handed a week's trial to former Valencia defender Luis Lopez.

The 27-year-old is available on a free transfer and will have the opportunity to impress player-manager Andy Hessenthaler (pictured).

On the Spaniard, Hessenthaler said: "Luis has played at the very highest level in Spain and has a good reputation.

Meanwhile, the Priestfield Stadium club have given three of its youngsters new professional contracts.

Striker Andrew Crofts was given a two-year deal whilst defender Dean Beckwith and striker Jones Awuah have earned one-year deals with the Kent-based outfit.

On the club's new signings, Hessenthaler told the Gillingham official website: "We have given Andrew a two year deal because we feel that he could be another Paul Shaw.

"The other two lads have been given a year to keep them hungry - Jones has had a taste of first team football and did very well.

"Dean has been unlucky with an injury that has kept him out for the last few months but again he is a player that has impressed us."