NEW Gillingham manager Stan Ternent has made a Premiership goalkeeper his first signing.

The former Burnley boss arrived at the club on Tuesday to find only third choice keeper Bertrand Bossu fit so promptly agreed a loan deal with Norwich City for Paul Gallacher.

The 25-year-old Scottish international, who has also played for Dundee United and Airdrie, will make his debut on Saturday against Coca-Cola Championship leaders Wigan.

Gallacher, who has yet to play for the Canaries first team, will stay until January 7 unless Norwich activate the 24-hour recall option should they lose Robert Green or Darren Ward through injury or suspension.

Known as a good shot stopper who takes command of his area, Gallacher was also Nigel Worthington’s first summer signing, joining Norwich on a free transfer in June.

Gills’ keeper crisis came after Jason Brown was ruled out for six weeks with a torn hamstring and Steve Banks injured his back in the warm-up before last weekend’s Cardiff game and will be missing for a fortnight.

Bossu, 24, did well with some impressive saves in the 3-1 defeat but with just three league starts for the club, lacks experience at a time when the club cannot afford to take any chances.