Gillingham have completed the signing of experienced central defender Omar Beckles.
The 34-year-old becomes the third new signing of the winter transfer window for the Gills.
A deal for the former Leyton Orient captain was already agreed ahead of a tough weekend for the Gills, which saw defender Conor Masterson pick up an injury in the 4-1 thrashing at the hands of Bromley.
With Masterson set for more time out injured with a calf strain, Beckles’ arrival is well-timed, the deal confirmed on the final day of the mid-season transfer window.
Beckles said: “I am delighted to get this over the line. The Gaffer has played a big part in that and it’s an amazing project to be a part of.
“I’ve still got that appetite and desire to want to achieve. I am really excited. I have got so much to give.”
His arrival comes after the Gills had already completed the signing of Cameron Antwi and Ronan Hale.
He will add much-needed experience to the Gills back-line as manager Gareth Ainsworth continues to stamp his mark on the squad.
Beckles’ last appearance for Orient came on New Year’s Day – his 200th game for the club.
He’d been with hometown side Orient since the summer of 2021, and played a key role in helping them win promotion in the 2022/23 season, going up as champions of League 2.
Last season he helped Orient reach the League 1 play-off final, losing out to Charlton Athletic in the final at Wembley, and he signed a new two-year contract with the London club in the summer.
Beckles said after his milestone game: “To play this number of games has been a pleasure and a privilege, and even more so when wearing the armband.
“I have created a lot of important memories here, and winning the league title will always stand out to me.”
Following his Orient exit, their head coach Richie Wellens said: “Becks has been a vital part of our success since I joined the club and I want to thank him for all of his efforts.”
Prior to his time at Orient, Leytonstone-born Beckles played for EFL sides Crewe, Shrewsbury and Accrington after several seasons in non-league, which included a loan spell at Margate.
He’ll now be aiming to enjoy more success in League 2, but joins a Gills team with plenty of ground to make up if they want to challenge this season.
Gillingham will be aiming to bounce back from their weekend rout with a game at Notts County on Tuesday night.
