Docherty signs on as Ronnie's assistant

Docherty: on board for next season and beyond

Docherty initially joined the Gills in a consultancy role last season, where he worked as an assistant manager in all but name - and his partnership with Ronnie Jepson worked wonders as the Gills moved out of relegation trouble during the final months of the season.

Mick confirmed to me at the fans' player of the year awards that he'd be staying on as the assistant manager for this coming season - and the official confirmation of this is the third piece of good news for Gills fans in what has been a busy day at Priestfield club.

The signings of Gary Mulligan and Guylain Ndumbu-Nsungu, plus the confirmation of Docherty's role, are all positive moves by the club, who are looking for a winning season in 2006/2007.

Youngster Luke Howell has also been given a full pro contract after impressing during his final year as a scholar. We wish him all the best as he steps up to the full first-team squad next season.