by Luke Cawdell

Andy Hessenthaler is hoping that Simon King can return from the wilderness this year and finally put an end to his injury woes.

King was injured in a pre-season match at Bromley in August 2009, having been named player-of-the-year in Gillingham’s League 2 promotion season, but has barely been seen in action since.

He missed the entire 2009/10 campaign and managed just four appearances last season.

With just 196 minutes of senior football under his belt in the last two years, both Hessenthaler and King (pictured) are realistic about the future.

Gills boss Hessenthaler said: "I think it will be a big pre-season for him and he has to hit the ground running. It’s the last year on his deal and he needs to be playing games.

"We have to manage the ankle and it’s going to be a tricky one. He has to come back and give it a right go now and let’s keep our fingers crossed that he can come back flying."

Asked if he could be the same player with another year out, Hessenthaler said: "I don’t think so. Simon is realistic to know that, he’s not silly.

"He’s had a bad year with injuries but he will come back and we will see how he goes. Let’s hope he doesn’t break down. He needs a good pre-season under his belt and I am sure everyone is hoping he will be fine."

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