GILLINGHAM manager Mark Stimson insists the door remains open for the club’s senior players to join his new-look team.

Stimson tried unsuccessfully to offload several players last week and although he has already brought in seven new faces, he hasn’t ruled anyone out of contention.

"Fair play to the senior players," said Stimson. "They have worked extremely hard this week and there were some bright performances during the practice game we had in-house on Tuesday.

"You can never say it’s your last chances, because if we get struck down with a few illnesses then those players would have to be called upon.

"I’ve said to them, if they do get another opportunity, take it, because in football there are so many people waiting to get into your boots because it’s such a fantastic job."

Among the casualties since Stimson’s appointment have been experienced strikers Gary Mulligan, Delroy Facey and Dave Graham. All are fit but face competition from 15-year-old Luke Freeman.

"You have to think about those senior players," said Stimson. "How would you feel about a 15-year-old boy taking your place? What would you do? I know what I would do but we’re all different.

"Fair credit to the 15-year-old. He doesn’t look out of place and his age doesn’t come into it.

"Once he’s out on that pitch with the senior players he’s as bright as any of them and that’s really encouraging to see."