Gills swoop for Blackburn duo

Midfielder Douglas, 23, is a full Republic of Ireland international, while McEveley is an England under 21 international defender, who can operate anywhere across the back four. Manager Stan Ternent will know all about McEveley's abilities from the youngster's spell on loan at Turf Moor while Stan was in charge of Burnley.

McEveley: A much-needed fullback

The timing of the one-month deals appears to have been very well chosen by the club, as this will mean the two players could figure in as many as SIX of Gillingham's remaining Championship matches during their loan spell. They would therefore be available to face Leeds (a), Stoke (h), Ipswich (h), Preston (a), QPR (h) and Burnley (h).

Talking about the pair's move to Gillingham, Blackburn boss Mark Hughes told the press, "We feel it is right that Jonathon and James should be given this opportunity. It is a chance for them to get some good, competitive first team action and we will be keeping a careful eye on their progress."

They arrived at the club today and may well feature prominently in Stan Ternent's lineup to face Leeds United at Elland Road on Saturday.

With injuries and suspensions hitting the squad hard, the two signings are very timely indeed - and should add some much-needed youth and quality to the side in the coming weeks.