FORMER Colchester United defender Nicky Shorey has left his role as Gillingham's Head of Recruitment.

Shorey, who took over in the role in March, has parted company with the League Two strugglers by mutual consent.

The former England full-back, who played 15 games for the U's under Kevin Keen during the 2015-16 season, had been working closely with the football operation in place at the MEMS Priestfield Stadium.

In a statement, Gillingham said: 'The club can confirm that Nicky Shorey has left his position as Head of Recruitment by mutual consent.

'Everyone at MEMS Priestfield Stadium would like to thank Nicky for his efforts while at the club and we wish him every success for the future.

'The club is pleased to confirm that we have appointed James King as a Recruitment Consultant in the short-term with immediate effect.

'James will primarily be tasked with recruitment for the January transfer window. He will be working with, and reporting to the Board, as well as the first-team manager.'

Shorey, 41, who was born in Romford, finished his impressive league playing career at Colchester.

He had two spells at Reading, for whom he made nearly 300 league appearances and also played for the likes of Aston Villa, West Brom and Portsmouth.

Shorey also won two England caps in 2007, against Germany and Brazil.

Prior to his role at Gillingham, he had previously been working at his former club Reading, as their Academy Lead Scout.