Bristol Rovers are hopeful that they will be able to bring James Connolly back to the club this summer from Cardiff, as reported by Bristol Post.

The 20-year-old managed more showings in the league for Rovers in the last League Two campaign than he has managed in his career to date so far, with the defender managing 24 outings and one goal along the way.

He helped the side to a promotion back into the third tier and now Joey Barton seemingly wants him back to help them to continue to push on a division higher.

Considering that he has yet to play in a single league game for the Bluebirds too, there is every chance that he could be let go this summer, on either a permanent or short-term basis.

It isn't clear yet where the club stand on his future but Barton will certainly fancy his chances of having him back.

Prior to joining Cardiff, the youngster played for Blackburn Rovers, where he also failed to get onto the field in the league.

Connolly then has only ever managed to get divisional action for Bristol Rovers, and if they can continue to offer him football - and in a higher league now - then the player may jump at the chance to move again.

Considering his age, he also has the potential to get even better with the Gas if he is allowed to join - and it appears that the ball is now firmly in Cardiff's court over his future and where he will play.

The Verdict

James Connolly was solid at the back for Bristol Rovers last season and it is no wonder that Joey Barton wants a reunion with the player again in the next campaign.

The player is part of the reason why the club have been promoted back up to the third tier in the first place and he will want him to continue his progress with the Gas.

Considering he played such an important role for the club, his departure will likely have left a gap at the back too.

Cardiff might be willing to do some kind of business over the player, with whatever happens over his contract and his future with the Bluebirds.

He has yet to be given a league game with the Welsh outfit and that suggests that they don't feel he is ready to play in their first-team yet - meaning he could be open to another deal.

He would definitely get more action with Rovers - and it could be a deal that once again suits all parties.