Gillingham have been dashed in their attempts to extend winger Jordan Obita’s loan spell and he returns to Reading with immediate effect.

The eighteen year old scored three times in five starts for The Gills, but has returned to the Championship side as they push for a place in the Premier League.

Gills boss Andy Hessenthaler was hopeful of keeping the pacy winger despite him being an unused substitute at the weekend, but The Royals bosses have decided not to allow a loan extension.

Speaking to the club’s official website, Andy Hessenthaler had this to say about Obita:

“We enjoyed the time he’s been here, he’s still only a young lad and this isn’t an easy level for an academy player to come into.”

“In the games he played he did well for us. He goes back to a club that are absolutely flying and I wish them well.”

Obita’s departure will surely come as a blow to Hessenthaler who will be looking to keep up The Gills play-off push.

With striker Jo Kuffour set to miss Friday’s trip to Bristol Rovers, Hessenthaler’s options going forward are starting to look a little thinner.

Meanwhile, Hessenthaler takes a side to Folkestone Invicta this evening to play in a Benefit game for Assistant Manager Micky Dix.

The game that starts at 7:45pm is likely to feature the likes of Rowan Vine, Simon King and Danny Spiller, with entry costing £5.