Gillingham have confirmed that Mark Patterson and Ian Cox will continue to assist boss Steve Lovell as a new coach arrives to help out.

The pair were initially picked to help Lovell out, on an interim basis, as both already worked at the club.

Patterson had been the under-18 manager while Cox worked as a community coach and with the ladies academy.

The club have now employed former AFC Wimbledon and Peterborough coach Ben White to work with the under-18s, which will allow Patterson to continue with his role alongside Lovell.

White took charge of Gills’ youth side for the first time this Saturday, seeing them draw 1-1 with Leyton Orient.

The first team were without a game, as scheduled opponents Shrewsbury are in FA Cup action On Sunday.

Lovell praised those who have assisted him since he took over as manager.

He said: “I am very happy with the whole team around us, including Gary Hemens (the physio) and Glen Johnson (the goalkeeper coach).

“We all understand each other and we all enjoy coming into work. I think it helps the club when you come into an environment where everyone is happy.

“Even when we were in the relegation places, it was nice to come in, because it is a decent environment, it helps on the field and it sets a feeling around the club.

“That is what we will continue to do and hopefully we can get the points necessary to remain in this league.”

New man White is the son of former player Dean White.