Rooney graduated from the club's youth set-up

Gillingham manager Andy Hessenthaler says Luke Rooney has benefited greatly from his longest ever run in the side.

The 20-year-old attacking midfielder has played in the last eight games, scoring two goals.

"He's improving with every game," said Hessenthaler. "He'll say it's because he's getting a run. He's maturing. He's been terrific."

"Before this season I'd never played two games in a row, it does definitely help," said Rooney.

"I can't tell you how over the moon I am about a run in the side. I feel I've done myself justice, it definitely helps," said Rooney, who made his first team debut in August 2009.

"You get used to silly things, starting games, and the gaffer said my defending is improving. M response to that is that it's because I'm playing games. Simple as that."

Hessenthaler said Rooney's run in the team has also ironed out his weaknesses.

"I've got a lot of time for Roo," he said. "He's a match-winner. Some of the stuff he does is fantastic and other stuff he does you get frustrated with him.

"He's listening on the training ground. I'm delighted with him."

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