Former Gillingham player Nathan Nyafli is to stand trial early next year accused of raping a woman.

The 20-year-old striker, of Tollgate Way, Sandling, Maidstone, denied committing the offence in May this year when he appeared at Maidstone Crown Court today.

Nyafli, whose bail was continued, will go on trial on February 9.

His playing career ended prematurely through injury after playing just one game for the Gills.

He scored with his first touch in an away game with Burton Albion in April last year on the final day of the season. He had only been on the field as a substitute for three minutes.

Announcing his retirement in February, the club said an ongoing hip injury had proved too severe for him to continue playing.

Nyafli began his career with MK Dons and moved to Gillingham after a year. While serving his apprenticeship he joined Whitstable Town on loan, making one appearance.