GILLINGHAM striker Marlon King says its "brilliant to be back" at Priestfield and says he hopes to mark his return after nine months in jail by taking on Premiership side Chelsea in the Worthington Cup.

King, 22, who had been serving an 18-month prison sentence at Stanford Hill open prison on Sheppey for the possession of a stolen BMW, was released nine months early on Wednesday.

He told a packed press conference: "It's brilliant to be back and to see the guys playing." He joined his team mates in a training session at Beechings Cross, Gillingham, less than 24-hours after walking free.

He said: "Everyone has really welcomed me back. I've spent the day running and practising circuits."

Talking about his time behind bars, he said: "It wasn't as I expected. Everyone in prison was brilliant. I missed the little things - things like deodorant and soap. It made me appreciate life." Asked when he would be playing again, he joked: "When selected!"

Gillingham's player-manager Andy Hessenthaler said: "Marlon looked superb in training. He's got a good touch. He's a natural."

Club chairman Paul Scally commented: "Marlon coming out was a boost. We just want him to get on with what he's best at. He should be allowed to get his head down and get on with it."