GILLINGHAM'S players have returned from their summer break and new signing Simon King says he is determined to make friends fast.

The Gills splashed out £200,000 for Barnet’s player-of-the-year and the centre-back’s first aim was to start forging bonds with his team-mates.

"It’s all new for me and I’m looking forward to meeting a new set of lads," said the 24-year-old. "I want to settle in and build a strong bond with my fellow centre-half.

"You’ve got to gel with the other players, particularly the other centre-half, as well as the full backs. You have to communicate well and get used to each other."

A dire defensive record last season led to manager Ronnie Jepson having a major clear-out at the back and he’ll be hoping King can live up to his promise.

"Everyone says what an unbelievable player he is and he’s got great potential," said Jepson. "He’s got a lovely appetite for the game and can only improve."

King has plenty of ambition and after meeting Jepson at Priestfield, he is sure that the club can take him where he wants to be.

He said: "It was difficult to leave Barnet because I’d been with them for four years and made a lot of friends.

"I also got on well with the fans but I need a fresh start and a new challenge and this will be a chance to further my football career."