Gillingham’s new signing Eli King impressed on his debut against Rochdale just days after making a permanent move from Championship side Cardiff City

Eli King was thrust into action sooner than expected for Gillingham – and he’s already got the fans excited for more.

King missed most of last season for Cardiff City after suffering an anterior cruciate ligament injury and has only just returned.

On transfer deadline day, he signed a permanent deal at Gillingham in a bid to kickstart his career again after so long out.

Many Cardiff fans were upset to see him go – and after his first appearance in a Gills shirt, you can see why.

King, 23, was an 18th-minute replacement for fellow deadline-day signing Zech Obiero, who had to go off with a hamstring injury.

The former Cardiff player had a hand in Gillingham’s opener, picking Nick Freeman out on the right with a ball that spread the play. Freeman in turn found James Brophy, who finished with a shot beyond the keeper.

King also helped set up the third goal with a ball into the box and claimed an assist for Brophy’s run and finish – albeit 99% of that work belonged to the finisher.

It proved to be a good day out for King, who got valuable minutes in the 4-1 win over Rochdale – hopefully without issue – as he continues his comeback from the long-term injury.

Speaking about his new recruit’s involvement, manager Gareth Ainsworth said: “What a player that boy is, and what a player he will be for us, but he's surrounded by some real good lads.

“I didn't want to start Eli because I don't want to take the risk of him getting injured as well. But Eli came on and showed his class.

“He's going to be great, and he's going to get fitter and fitter.

“There was even a consideration of taking him off after 80 minutes. He would have been one of those unfortunate subs that get subbed. But he saw the game out, and I'm so pleased he got