Gillingham boss Martin Allen has made defender Connor Essam and striker Ben Strevens available on free transfers.

Meanwhile, goalkeeper Ross Flitney has been deemed surplus to requirements and has been released.

Strevens (pictured) will still be in the squad for Gills' game at Bristol Rovers on Saturday and Allen described him as 'a very important member of our squad.'

However, he added: "He has a great attitude but finding him a place in the team and on the bench has proven to be difficult.

"He will still be involved with us but I've promised that if clubs come in for him, to give him an opportunity to play and maybe earn himself a new contact, then we will not stand in his way."

On Essam, Allen said: "Connor will be made available on a free transfer to give him a good opportunity to find a club as he is a good young player.

"The club will retain an interest by including a percentage sell-on as I still feel Connor will have a good career."

Flitney has not featured under Allen although he was was recalled from a loan spell at Eastleigh to sit on the bench for the FA Cup defeat at Preston last month. He quickly rejoined the Blue Square Bet South club on loan.

Allen said: "I have made this decision with regards to Ross now to give him an opportunity of finding a club for next season.

"A combination of Stuart Nelson, Tommy Forecast and (goalkeeping coach Carl) Muggleton have worked particularly well and we also have a good young keeper in Daren Hawkes waiting in the wings."