Lewis joined Gillingham from Stimson's former club, Stevenage, in the January transfer window.

"I'm forecasting massive things from Stuart. I expect him to play at this level, or higher, for the rest of his career," said Stimson.

"He's behind a couple of players, so he hasn't really had an opportunity for us yet, but his pedigree is spot on."

"He's been very fortunate in his upbringing in the game, spending four years at Arsenal and three as a trainee at Tottenham," added the Gillingham boss.

Lewis was the fourth player to join Gillingham from Stevenage since the former Borough boss took over at Priestfield.

Defender John Nutter and midfielder Adam Miller joined the North Kent club in November, while Lewis and full-back Barry Fuller were signed for undisclosed fees at the start of 2008.