Following Tuesday nights 0-2 defeat at Brighton, Mark Stimson has moved quickly to strengthen his squad with the signings of Matt Fry and Scott Vernon.

19 year-old Fry is a natural left footer capable of playing at centre-half or full back and recently impressed on trial at Priestfield in the 4-1 reserve win over Leyton Orient.

A graduate of the Hammers Youth Academy, Fry captained the Upton Park side's youth team last season before signing his first professional contract in June.

Striker Vernon signs from Colchester United where he scored the U's first in the 2-1 win over Gillingham at the Weston Homes Stadium in August.

A tall, powerful target man, the 26 year-old will provide much needed height to the Gills attack and has already scored three goals for Colchester this season.

Both players have signed initial one month loan deals and will go straight into Stimson's squad for Saturday's trip to the MK Dons.