Fry causing a stir

Defender Matt Fry was back at the Boleyn Ground this week to cheer on his West Ham United team-mates in their Barclays Premier League South fixture against Arsenal.

The 19-year-old, a regular in Alex Dyer's squad last season, has spent the past three months on loan at League One side Gillingham.

Fry has been in superb form for Mark Stimson's side, earning rave reviews for his strong displays from his manager, team-mates and supporters alike. In turn, the centre-back has relished the opportunity to play regularly at the Priestfield Stadium.

"I've thoroughly enjoyed going out and playing first-team football," the youngster told WHUTV. "It's what every young player wants to do, and the manager at Gillingham has given me that opportunity.

"Playing reserve-team football is good, but when you go out and you get the taste of first-team football, that's what you want to keep doing.

"It's especially nice when you get praise from your manager as it relaxes you and calms you down a little bit. It was good for me and definitely helped me settle in. Also, playing on a Saturday and on a Tuesday has given me a taste of first-team football and what it's all about."

Fry has been ruled out with a knee injury suffered in the 1-1 draw at Exeter City on 28 December, but hopes to return to action next month. The first-year professional sees his long-term future at West Ham, but admitted he would be happy to return to Gillingham to help the club's fight against relegation to League Two.

"I did enjoy going to team that's in a battle because the games meant a little bit more. It's always nice when the three points is so special at the end of the day. I'll get myself fit and see what's happening here. I'd like to go back and play first-team football and hopefully help Gillingham to climb the table."

To hear Fry's views on the high standard of League One football and his close relationship with the Gillingham supporters, log on to WHUTV here.