Simon King returns to first team action on Tuesday Picture: Barry Goodwin

By Alex Hoad

Simon King made a winning return to the Gillingham team on Tuesday night – and then admitted he feared his comeback would never happen.

King came off the bench to replace the injured Matt Lawrence after 25 minutes of the 3-1 win over Rotherham for his first appearance since the 2009 League 2 play-off final at Wembley.

King said: "I feel brilliant. It’s one of the best feelings I’ve had in football.

"It’s a special moment. It was great to be back out there – it’s been a long time coming.

"I was nervous. It was like making my debut all over again after being out for so long. I never thought I’d get back to this stage."

King’s return made the months he has spent trying to get himself back to full fitness all worthwhile.

The dark days appear well and truly behind the 27-year-old, who reported no reaction after the game to the ankle injury that he damanged in a pre-season friendly at Bromley.

"All those long days in the gym, it’s all been worthwhile," added King. "All that hard work has finally paid off."

What sort of impact do you hope the return of Simon King will make to Gillingham's promotion push? Have your say below.