Simon King (left) trains with physio Steve Allen and other injured players Picture: Barry Goodwin

by Andrew Gidley

Gillingham boss Andy Hessenthaler believes defender Simon King faces a “long road ahead” before attempting to resurrect his career.

King, who was named player of the season following promotion to League 1 at the end of the 2008/09 season, has not played since last pre-season when he suffered a serious ankle injury.

He was not due to travel with the Gills for their pre-season training camp in France when they left yesterday (Thursday) and looks set for a long wait before playing again.

Hessenthaler said: “I have seen the scans and it was nasty injury. The kid is desperate to come back, I believe it could be around Christmas. It’s a long road ahead and he has just got to be patient.”

King joined the Gills from Barnet, where he had played alongside Hessenthaler, in a £200,000 move. He has 99 appearances to his name.

Comment below on the injury that is keeping Gills' star player on the sidelines.