King was Gillingham's player of the season for 2008/09

Gillingham have blamed the winter weather for the delayed return of defender Simon King.

The 27-year-old has not played since damaging his ankle in July 2009.

But he lost the opportunity to get more match fitness when their friendly against Colchester on Tuesday was called off because of the snow.

"Is a shame because it would have been nice to give him another good 75 minutes but the weather's taken over," Hessenthaler told BBC Radio Kent.

Fellow defender Garry Richards and winger Andy Barcham are also long-term injury absentees.

But none of them are likely to make the squad for Saturday's home game with Macclesfield because they have not been able to train properly as the training ground was frozen.

I certainly think Simon King has every chance of being involved in our home game against Chesterfield Andy Hessenthaler

"It's been a bit frustrating for us because we had two great away wins and when you get a little bit of momentum you want to keep playing but it's been disrupted by the weather," said Hessenthaler.

"It's really pleasing to see the likes of Garry Richards making tackles and enjoying his football again.

"Andy Barcham and Simon King are getting stronger with every session so it's looking bright for those three.

"Unfortunately we tried to get a game behind closed doors against Colchester on Tuesday but we're not going to be able to do that because there's still snow on the pitch.

"It's alright having all the time off that we've had but it's about game situation for those players.

"They may be fit but match fitness is going to be the key.

"We've got a reserve game next week against Aldershot which they'll be involved in.

"Then I certainly think Simon King has every chance of being involved in our home game against Chesterfield.

"We'll have to see how they go but it's really encouraging to see those three boys back on the training ground with smiles on their faces.

"They've been down in the dumps - especially Simon King and Garry Richards who have been out longer than Andy Barcham. "

E-mail this to a friend

Printable version