Bygrave is staying at Priestfield for another month

The 18-year-old has made seven starts since arriving at Priestfield from the Premier League.

It is a relief for Gills manager Mark Stimson, who has defensive issues with Simon King out with a pulled hamstring and Ian Cox just back from injury.

Bygrave said: "First-team football is vital for my development so it's a good move for both clubs and me personally."

"I am learning all the time, and the boys here at Gillingham are good", he added.

Bygrave came on as a substitute during Saturday's defeat to Northampton, but is expected to be back in the starting 11 on Tuesday against Oldham.

Stimson said: "Adam is a good young player and is developing all the time. He has a good attitude in training and wants to improve.

"We are giving him priceless first team opportunities and I think Reading realise that this is a great benefit to the boy."