Within the last hour as the January transfer deadline window continues to tick down, Sheffield United have confirmed that midfielder Ricky Holmes has now departed the club and signed a deal with Gillingham.
The 31-year-old spent the first half of the campaign out on loan with Oxford United, making 19 appearances and scoring four times, but he again leaves on a temporary loan deal in the search of greater game time given the options available to manager Chris Wilder in our first team set up.
OUTGOING ➡️
Ricky Holmes has left Bramall Lane on a temporary basis for the second time this season.
The 31-year-old, who scored four times in 19 appearances whilst on-loan at Oxford United during the first-half of the season, has joined @TheGillsFC.https://t.co/rKdF7FF0jT
— Sheffield United (@SheffieldUnited) January 31, 2019
Having joined from Charlton Athletic back in January 2018, he does only have five appearances to his name in our shirt (only one start) so in many ways, it’s not actually a major loss as Wilder looks to keep people happy and keeps one eye on the finances.
Hopefully, he’ll get the game time he wants at the Priestfield Stadium and they are fully aware of the injury issue that has affected him all season so things should work out.
Chairman: "This is a fantastic signing for the club. We will be helping Ricky in regards to his injury and once he is fighting fit I have no doubt the fans will enjoy seeing what he can do."#Gills #DeadlineDay pic.twitter.com/JxMFv2pPKt
— Gillingham FC (@TheGillsFC) January 31, 2019