MANAGER Andy Hessenthaler urged seven-goal top scorer Marlon King to see out his contract with Gillingham before fulfilling his potential at the highest level. As the striker improved his chances of a first international call-up for the Republic of Ireland Under-21s next month with a stunning strike in Saturday's 2-1 win over Rotherham, Hessenthaler said: "He's committed himself here by signing a four-year deal.

"As far as I'm concerned he needs another couple of seasons in Division 1. If he keeps scoring goals then he's got a massive, massive future and he'll probably go all the way."

Hessenthaler described the pace of the shot which gave Gillingham an all-important 27th minute lead as "frightening" as the goal paved the way for the club's first win after four straight defeats.

"It doesn't surprise me that he can score a goal like that because I see it day in, day out in training. I know the Rotherham goalkeeper Mike Pollitt from his time here on loan and he admitted that the shot beat him for pace."

After being watched by Republic of Ireland team manager Mick McCarthy against Wolves in midweek, King is hoping to make his international debut for the Under-21s against Cyprus at Dalymount Park next month.

Should King be called up, Gillingham's match at Stockport on Friday, October 5 may be postponed.

The Gills boss also singled out the return from injury of King's striking partner Iffy Onuora as pivotal in the return to winning ways.

"Having Iffy back was a big bonus. We needed somebody to go against their three big men at the back. He was going really well before he got injured and needed him back. He did well but got a little tired towards the end so we took him off to give him a rest."