Eastbourne Borough have drafted in Luke Rooney to boost their battle against relegation.

The midfielder signed on loan for the rest of the season from Gillingham yesterday and will make his debut in the crucial clash against Grays Athletic on Saturday.

Rooney proved he can shine in Blue Square premier during an impressive spell at Lewes last year and has since gone on to break into the first team at Gillingham.

The 19-year-old has played 12 times for the Gills in League One this season, ten as a substitute, and has recently signed a new two-year deal to remain at the Priestfield Stadium.

Boss Garry Wilson said: “We saw Luke play when he was at Lewes and were impressed. The guys there told me what a good character he has and his work-rate is fantastic so I think he will be a good addition to our squad.

“We’re delighted to get him. I speak to Mark Stimson (Gillingham manager) from time to time and just asked on the off chance if Luke was available and was pleasantly surprised when he said he was.”

Borough have failed to score in their last three league games and Wilson believes Rooney can boost their firepower.

He has scored twice for Gillingham this season and as well as playing as an attacking central midfielder can operate on the right wing or off a central striker.

Wilson added: “There are two or three positions he feels at home in so it gives us options. We need somebody who is going to be creative and he is also very highly rated on set pieces.”

Wilson is still hoping to make another signing before the loan window closes next Thursday.

He added: “We have something in the pipeline but it won’t happen until after the weekend.”