by Max Meads, reporter

Gillingham manager Steve Lovell has stated that his side have learned from their mistakes earlier in the season and will make Priestfield a tough place to come for their opponents, second-placed Barnsley.

The Gills are currently languishing in 19^th and are just one point above the drop zone, but have issued a statement of intent to stay in League One with four late signings in the winter window.

The Gills announced on Deadline Day that they had signed Leonardo da Silva Lopes, Tahvon Campbell, Ricky Holmes and Northern Ireland international Graham Burke.

Speaking at a press conference yesterday, Lovell was full of praise for Burke, and has said he expects the new signings will make a big difference to the Gills’ form.

“Graham’s a very good player,” Lovell said.

“He’s come from a Championship side, played a few games in the Championship and he’s a full international, so he’s going to bring quality.”

“I thought he was very excellent last week and I think he’ll only get better.”

Burke’s debut came off the bench last weekend in a 1-1 draw to Coventry City, where league top scorer Tom Eaves buried a penalty in the 92^nd minute to earn the Gills a point.

Lovell was seemingly very happy to have Eaves back, and more importantly, having him still in a Gillingham shirt.

“Tom’s a true professional,” Lovell said.

“Now he’s back from injury, we are looking forward to him playing for us without any speculation on his future.”

Gillingham face off against Barnsley at 3pm on Saturday 9^th February, at Priestfield Stadium.