By Luke Cawdell

Gillingham manager Andy Hessenthaler will be keeping a close eye on young defender Jack Baldwin as he heads north for a trial with Hartlepool.

Baldwin has emerged as a hot prospect in the Ryman League after a string of impressive displays in central defence for Faversham Town.

After appearing for the Gills in their opening three pre-season matches Baldwin has been given a week’s trial with League 1 Hartlepool.

Hessenthaler, pictured, said: "He looks assured and he wins his headers and reads the game well. We like him and although I don’t think he is ready yet I think he could be at some stage.

"We will see what happens at Hartlepool. If all of a sudden there is a contract on the table from them then we may well step in but we will wait and see how it goes."

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