Simon King is replaced early on in the Crewe game Pic: Barry Goodwin

by Luke Cawdell

Simon King is set for a swift return to Gillingham’s first team squad.

The central defender limped out of the Crewe match last weekend early on with a hamstring injury.

He was starting his first league match for the Gills in over 18 months in that game, following a long-term ankle injury, but lasted just 17 minutes at Crewe.

Gills manager Andy Hessenthaler doesn’t think the defender will be out for too long following his latest set-back.

Hessenthaler said: "It’s 10 days (out) so it’s not too bad. He might pick up these little niggles along the way as he over-compensates for the ankle but we just have to keep on top of it.

"It’s not as bad as first thought which is good news."

Hessenthaler is likely to have both Matt Lawrence and Tony Sinclair back fit and fighting it out to partner Garry Richards in defence this weekend.

Lawrence picked up a groin injury in the win over Rotherham and Sinclair rolled his ankle in a practice match against a Millwall XI on Tuesday.

"It’s a bonus that Matt is going to be available," said Hessenthaler.

"Sincs is a bit sore, it’s the same ankle (as his previous injury), but there is no swelling. It was just a case of getting him off the pitch and being careful. We are in better shape now and that’s good."

Fellow central defender Josh Gowling could also be ready to return for the Gills next weekend when they travel to Shrewsbury.

When all of the defenders are fit who would you prefer as the central defensive pairing? Comment below