Simon King has suffered a set-back to his comeback from long-term injury.

The central defender has been back on the Gillingham substitutes’ bench in recent weeks, after 18 months out with an ankle injury, but had to be withdrawn from a practice game through discomfort.

Wednesday’s training ground match should have been another step in the right direction for King as he looks to get back in shape, but he could now be absent for this weekend’s trip to Stockport.

That news was a blow to King and his manager Andy Hessenthaler.

Speaking on Thursday, Hessenthaler said: “We played three half hours and he couldn’t play in the last one because his ankle was sore.

“It’s a little concern with Simon because he is very close but every now and again he still feels that ankle.”

Garry Richards is, however, expected to be back in the 18-man squad for the trip to Stockport after recovering from his own ankle problems. He comes in for the injured Joe Martin.

How much of a blow to Gillingham is Simon King's injury set-back? Leave your comments below.