Goalkeeper Tomas Holy has become Ady Pennock’s first signing as Gillingham head coach after signing a two-and-a-half-year contract at the MEMS Priestfield Stadium.

The 25-year-old Czech came through the Academy at his home country’s most famous club, AC Sparta Prague, and impressed Pennock during a week-long trial with the club at the start of January.

Holy, who clocks in at six-foot-nine, was promoted to the Sparta first team in the summer of 2012 and played 12 games for the club in between loan moves.

He has spent the last three years having short spells at various clubs in this home country’s leagues; his most successful campaign came with FV Viktoria Zizkov during the 2014/15 season, for whom he made 41 appearances.

He was capped three times apiece by the Czech Republic’s under-16s and 17s, and made six appearances for his country’s under-18s.

“It has always been a dream of mine to play in England,” said Holy.

“I have followed the leagues since I was eight, and I am looking forward to playing my first game in English football.

“I am very pleased that my trial with Gillingham was successful, and I cannot wait to get the chance to help the team move up the table.”

Holy will wear the number 30 shirt for the Gills. Subject to international clearance, he will be eligible to play against Sheffield United on Saturday.

“We’ve had a good look at him, and Ian Pledger, the club’s goalkeeping coach, and I have both been impressed with what we’ve seen,” added Pennock.

“He’s a good age for a goalkeeper, so there’s plenty of opportunity for him to continue developing. He’s a presence, he’s commanding in his area, and he brings competition into the club.

“I’m really pleased to have secured his signature.”