Simeon Jackson will be absent from Gillingham’s pre-season campaign for a little longer after Canada qualified for the Gold Cup quarter-finals on Friday.

Jackson played 81 minutes of Canada’s final group match, which ended in a 2-2 draw against Costa Rica, earning himself a fifth senior international cap.

Canada now go into the quarter-final section which takes place this Saturday and, despite the striker’s continued absence, it’s not a worry for Gills boss Mark Stimson.

"It’s not a problem," insisted Stimson. "He’s getting his fitness and his football, and a lot of confidence and belief. Hopefully he’s enjoying it as much as he can.

"I’m sure when he comes back he’ll have that spring in his step that an international player should have, and that will add to our squad."

Jackson has been on international duty virtually since the end of last season when he scored the 90th-minute winner for the Gills at Wembley. He’ll be given at least a few days’ rest on his return.

"He’ll have a break of some sort and we’ll see how long he would like and what I decide," said Stimson.

"He will get a break because he needs to shut off a little bit. He’s quite fortunate as he’s figured in the games and he had 80 minutes on Friday so his fitness levels will be good. If he has a five or seven-day break, he can come in and be ready to go."

Meanwhile, Gillingham have lined up another pre-season friendly. They will travel to play Championship side Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park on Sunday, August 2, with a 2pm kick-off.