Gillingham boss John Coleman commends 'exciting' Crystal Palace loanee Asher Agbinone
Gillingham boss John Coleman reckons Crystal Palace loanee Asher Agbinone will be an 'exciting asset' for the side 16th in League Two.
Agbinone joined the Gills on a half-season loan this month and was given his League Two debut from the start in Coleman’s first game in charge on Saturday.
The 19-year-old, who is naturally a winger, played as the number ten for Gillingham before being subbed in the 82nd minute during their 1-0 defeat to Doncaster.
After his first appearance, Agbinone was announced as the club's man of the match.
A promising debut 💫💥
Asher’s performance versus Doncaster this weekend earned him the MOTM Award.#Gills pic.twitter.com/jqRK0T5bsA— Gillingham FC (@TheGillsFC) January 19, 2025
Coleman was pleased with the attacker's impact and believes he will be valuable once he adjusts to League Two.
“I think there were signs of young Asher exciting the fans,” Coleman shared. It’s great when players get the ball and the fans start cheering.
“Once he gets his head around playing League Two football, I think he can be an exciting asset for us.
"He is still getting a handle on the game. It’s a different style of football, playing League Two or in the U21s. Being in and around the first team is a completely different sport. He’s got the ability to be able to handle it.”
Speaking to the club's YouTube channel, Agbinone added: “The gaffer’s been excellent since the first day I spoke to him in training.
"He told me the style of play he wants to play, and he's definitely implemented that in training, getting us working hard and playing the right way.
"We have got a great group and a lot of quality. I just want to help the team as much as possible."