Gillingham boss Neil Harris believes losing Nicky Shorey is 'a real shame.'

The former England full-back played almost 400 times for Reading across two spells, and even took on a scouting role at the club before the Covid-19 pandemic.

He was made Head of Recruitment at Priestfield eight months ago, but parted company with the Kent club today with the club in the League Two relegation zone.

Speaking to BBC Sport Kent, Millwall legend Harris could hardly contain his disappointment.

"It’s a real shame, I’m really disappointed. He’s a top guy, has a great eye and he filled a massive void out scouting. I understand football you have to make changes sometimes and things change, but it'll be a big loss before January.

"I wouldn’t necessarily concur in making somebody a scapegoat, setting up a recruitment department in the football club was in the infant stage.The idea was that it was going to be the start and we are going to build from that.

"To take him away is a real shame."

Shorey brought 13 players into the club, with the aim of immediate promotion back to the third tier after relegation.