By Luke Cawdell

Simon King is facing a battle to be fit for the start of next season.

Gillingham boss Mark Stimson revealed that the defender's chances of recovering from his long-term injury in time for August were "not good".

It’s a devastating blow for King, who has missed the whole of this campaign with an ankle injury.

King (pictured) was voted Gills’ player-of-the-year after last season’s promotion campaign where he played through pain for much of the season. A knock in pre-season at Bromley was a blow too far and he has been sidelined ever since.

"He’s done what has been asked of him but unfortunately it hasn’t stood up to what has been required," said Stimson.