Ainsworth excited by 'edge-of-seat' winger Kendall

Ainsworth has led Gillingham to two 17th placed finishes since his arrival in March 2025 [Getty Images] Gillingham boss Gareth Ainsworth says he is "very excited" by new season-long loan signing Sheldon Kendall from Championship side Millwall. The 18-year-old arrived this week to make it 11 signings for the Gills this summer. He made three senior appearances for the Lions, featuring as a substitute in their victories against Newport County and Coventry City in the Carabao Cup last season. Ainsworth told BBC Radio Kent that Kendall stood out in a friendly against Millwall last season, and he had been one of the club's top targets this summer. "It was his attacking flair and the Garath McCleary-esque play," Ainsworth said. "With Garath at 39 and Kadeem [Harris] at 33, we've got a lack of players who can take people on. "Sheldon is an unknown, but I feel like he's going to fit in really well. He's very exciting, can score with both feet, goes either way, super quick. Plenty to learn but one that really does excite me". The club do have James Brophy and Ronan Hale in the squad, but Ainsworth said Kendall adds to their attacking options. "He's one that I want to get the ball to, and I want him to take risks, and we'll back those risks. "An edge-of-the-seat player, and hopefully he can entertain the Gills fans, because I know he is capable of turning games." Gillingham also added utility defender Conor McManus to the squad this week, joining on a permanent deal for an undisclosed fee from Premier League side Brentford. The 22-year-old did not play a first-team match for the Bees after moving from Irish side Bray Wanderers, but Ainsworth said the former Republic of Ireland Under-21 captain will bring some leadership to the squad. "He will ask questions, he will demand of his team-mates, and I want tacticians who can solve problems on the pitch. I think we've probably really missed that in the past here, and that's something I wanted to sign this summer. "He's quick and strong, with a fabulous left foot, and plays right as well - he can play anywhere across the back". All the latest Gillingham news